Magnetic Drive Centrifugal Pumps for the Marine Green Fuel Transition

February 2026

The maritime industry is entering a new operational reality. As shipowners and operators adopt alternative fuels and introduce new onboard processes - from fuel conditioning to carbon capture - the requirements for fluid handling are becoming more demanding. Equipment must deliver high reliability, reduce leakage risk, and simplify maintenance, often in constrained engine-room environments where access and downtime are costly.

DESMI has been developing magnetic coupling technology since the 1990s. Over decades of continuous improvement and proven operation, DESMI magnetic drive solutions have been widely applied in chemical transfer services where safe containment and reliable performance are essential. Today, as fuel strategies expand to include methanol, ethanol, ammonia and LPG, seal-less pumping offers a practical way to strengthen safety and environmental protection while supporting stable operation.

Seal-less transfer with magnetic drive centrifugal pumps

In conventional pump designs, the dynamic shaft seal is one of the most common potential leakage points and typically requires inspection, service, and - depending on duty - auxiliary support systems. Magnetic drive centrifugal pumps take a different approach by eliminating the dynamic shaft seal entirely. Torque is transmitted through a magnetic coupling, enabling fully seal-less containment of the pumped medium.

For operators handling toxic, flammable, oxidizing, environmentally hazardous, or high-value liquids, this concept supports leakage-free transfer while also reducing complexity. Compared with traditional dual mechanical seal arrangements (cartridge or non-cartridge), magnetic drive technology can lower maintenance demands, minimize unplanned downtime related to seal issues, and reduce the need for auxiliary seal-flush systems - benefits that are especially relevant in marine operations where maintenance windows are limited.

New-generation series: efficiency, robustness, and maintainability

In response to growing demand for high-efficiency seal-less pumping systems, DESMI introduces a new-generation magnetically driven centrifugal pump series designed for both low- and high-pressure applications. The series features a more powerful and efficient magnetic drive system and is engineered to enhance stability, service life, and ease of maintenance in demanding duties.

The hydraulic design incorporates a double radial guide vane concept that enables a more compact shaft structure for improved mechanical stability and efficiency. An innovative hydraulic pressure balance system minimizes axial forces on the shaft, supporting longer bearing life and stable performance. High-reliability cast hydraulic components in corrosion-resistant materials contribute to durability, while an optimized hydraulic and structural design allows complete liquid drainage for improved maintainability. An advanced graphite composite sealing sleeve adds self-lubricating properties that reduce wear and support smooth operation over time.

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Applications

Magnetic drive centrifugal pumps are suitable for marine fuel handling and transfer operations involving methanol, ethanol, ammonia, and LPG, including bunkering and onboard transfer duties. They can be applied in alternative fuel systems where fuels are conditioned and supplied to main engines (ME), auxiliary engines (AE), boilers, incinerators, and similar equipment. In carbon capture and storage (CCS) installations, the pumps are well suited for amine solvent circulation as well as makeup and reboiler duties in absorption-based systems. They are also applicable for diesel and other low-viscosity fuel oil transfer where a seal-less design is required, and for chemical processes where zero medium leakage is critical.

Learn about Carbon Capture and Storage

Container ship carrying multicolored cargo sailing on a calm sea.

Supporting safer, cleaner operations

As marine systems evolve, containment-focused equipment becomes increasingly important. Magnetic drive centrifugal pumps offer a proven seal-less approach that reduces leakage risk, simplifies maintenance, and improves operational availability - qualities that align with the maritime sector’s safety expectations and sustainability goals.

For more information on our magnetic drive pump, feel free to reach out.