Babcock LGE launches ecoAPEX™ to unlock a new level of liquefied gas system performance

Babcock LGE, a marine engineering specialist, has introduced ecoAPEX™, a cutting-edge technology aimed at enhancing liquefied gas system performance. The product is an advanced reliquefaction architecture that optimizes energy usage onboard fuel-carrying vessels, leading to improved efficiency, performance, and cost savings. Dual-fuel gas carriers, in particular, face inefficiencies due to the need to cool boil-off gas and heat fuel simultaneously. ecoAPEX™ addresses this by unifying these opposing energy demands, enabling vessels to extract more value from onboard energy.

When combined with modern, high-capacity compression technology, the system provides a streamlined, high-performance cargo and fuel setup. For LPG/Ammonia carriers, ecoAPEX™ can boost reliquefaction efficiency up to 33%, cut energy consumption by 25%, and shorten loading and cooldown times by 14%, resulting in lower operating costs, reduced emissions, and improved cargo operations.

Ultra Large Ethane Carriers (ULEC) can even eliminate an entire reliquefaction and refrigeration system, leading to reduced CAPEX, installation complexity, footprint, and maintenance requirements. Notably, ecoAPEX™ accomplishes these gains without introducing rotating machinery. The technology merges proven compressor technology with conventional heat exchange, preserving the independent operation of cargo and fuel systems.

Neale Campbell, Babcock LGE's Managing Director, explained that the company aimed to explore new solutions within existing systems. By integrating cargo handling, fuel supply, modern compressor technology, and Babcock LGE's proprietary process technologies into a unified system, ecoAPEX™ enhances overall vessel performance, energy integration, and long-term value.

This achievement is a testament to Babcock LGE's commitment to innovation, drawing upon six decades of engineering expertise and more than 650 reference systems.