Plate Heat Exchanger Supply for LNG Carrier Engine Room Cooling System

Project Overview

A leading Chinese shipyard constructing a 174,000 m³ LNG carrier needed CCS-certified plate heat exchangers for the engine room cooling system. The package included lubricating oil coolers, freshwater coolers, and jacket water coolers — all requiring dual classification approval (CCS primary, DNV notation).

Challenge

• Dual class approval (CCS + DNV) significantly increases documentation requirements
• LNG carrier service requires materials rated for low-temperature duty (-163°C cargo environment)
• Titanium plates required for seawater-side circuits to prevent galvanic corrosion
• Tight integration with the main engine maker's cooling water system design

Our Solution

Hicool coordinated with a CCS/DNV-approved plate heat exchanger manufacturer to supply:

• 2× Lubricating Oil Coolers — titanium plates, 1,200 kW each, 0.7 MPa design pressure
• 2× Central Freshwater Coolers — titanium plates, 2,500 kW each, seawater circuit
• 1× Jacket Water Cooler — stainless steel 316L plates, 800 kW, closed circuit

All units were manufactured with CCS-witnessed hydraulic testing and DNV material certificates. Complete documentation included thermal calculation sheets, GA drawings, and spare gasket sets for 5-year service.

Results

• All 5 heat exchangers passed dual CCS/DNV factory inspection on first submission
• 42-day delivery — within the yard's scheduled engine room outfitting window
• Spare gasket inventory provided with 20% cost advantage over OEM gaskets

Key Takeaway

Marine plate heat exchangers for LNG service require specialized material selection and dual-class documentation expertise. Hicool's experience bridging Chinese manufacturers and international classification requirements ensures smooth approval processes.