Applications
Dual Fuel Vessels
Certified Methanol high velocity Pressure/Vacuum Valves for the Next Generation of Ship Design
The transition to alternative fuels is reshaping the maritime industry. Methanol, ammonia and other low-carbon fuels are increasingly used in dual fuel vessels across multiple segments – including container ships, cruise vessels, tankers and offshore units. However, storing and venting methanol introduces new safety and regulatory challenges.
At Pres-Vac Engineering, we deliver certified high velocity pressure vacuum valves specifically engineered for methanol and dual fuel applications – ensuring safe gas dispersion, stable pressure control and full compliance with IMO/MSC.1/Circ.1621
and related standards such as ISO15364, ISO16852 and Classification Societies rules and regulations.
PV-ECO Valve
The Pres-Vac PV-ECO valve is designed specifically for dual fuel installations.
It is:
- Certified according to IMO/MSC/Circ.677 REV1, IMO MSC.1621
- Tested in accordance with ISO 15364 and ISO 16852 Revision
- Endurance burn tested
- Certified for explosion group IIB (higher than required IIA)
- ATEX compliant (ISO 80079-36/37)
- Dual seat solution with metal to metal and resilient seal as soft seal
Our valve design combines magnet-controlled opening with weight-assisted closing, ensuring:
- No excessive overpressure during opening
- Reduced blowdown pressure
- Stable behaviour on vent pipes exceeding 100–200 metres
- Non-oscillating performance
- Fast and controlled closing
This is critical for protecting fuel tanks located deep within the vessel structure.
Methanol Storage – New Fuel, New Requirements
According to the IBC Code, methanol is:
- Flammable
- Toxic
- Explosion group IIA
Methanol fuel tanks are often installed:
- In double bottom constructions
- Below the engine room
- With long vent pipe runs to reach safe discharge height
This creates strict requirements for:
- High exit velocity
- Constant velocity above 60m/s for small vessels REF to DNV ? NEJ
- Certified flame and long endurance burn arresting capability
- Long vent pipe performance
- Stable, non-oscillating operation
- Minimal leakage
- High setpoint settings? Setpoint depending on the temperature the Methanol is stored under
The venting system must perform flawlessly – even at very low flow rates.
Engineered for Long Vent Pipes
Dual fuel vessels often require long vent pipe systems to safely release vapours away from crew and accommodation areas.
According to ISO 15364 and IMO requirements, valves must be endurance burn tested and certified for the specific pipe length.
Our methanol valves are certified for:
Long vent pipe installations (up to 220 metres depending on configuration)
- Non-oscillation performance
- Flame transmission resistance
- Leakage tightness
- High exit velocity dispersion
- Endurance burn tested
The magnet-assisted technology allows performance adjustment according to pipe diameter and length – a decisive advantage over conventional weight-loaded valves.
Suitable for Multiple Vessel Types
Our dual fuel venting solutions are suitable for:
- Container vessels
- Cruise ships
- Product and chemical tankers
- Offshore vessels
- RoPax and RoRo vessels
- Crew / vindmill supply vessels
Resilient Seal – Near Zero Emission Performance
Due to the toxicity of methanol and ammonia, leakage control is critical.
Our resilient seal solution:
- Reduces vapour emissions to near zero
- Minimises wear and tear
- Protects seat and disc
- Is available in NBR, Viton or Kalrez? NEJ depending on cargo specification
Even without the resilient seal installed, the valve is certified to protect the cargo tank in all cases.
Why Choose Pres-Vac for Dual Fuel Projects
With decades of experience in vapour handling and flame arresting technology, Pres-Vac Engineering is a trusted partner for the next generation of sustainable shipbuilding.
| Certifacations & Testings | Safety & Compliance |
|---|---|
| ✔ IMO 1621 certified | ✔IMO Polar Code compliance (with heat system installed) |
| ✔ ISO 15364 & ISO 16852 tested | ✔API2000 compliance |
| ✔ ATEX (ISO 80079) certified | ✔OCIMF compliance |
| ✔ Explosion group IIA and IIB tested | ✔ Non-oscillating magnet-assisted design |
| ✔ Certified for long vent pipes | ✔ Reduced blowdown and emissions |
Secure Your Dual Fuel Venting Solution
Contact our regulatory and technical sales team to discuss your methanol venting requirements and ensure full compliance from the design stage.