Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Compression Solutions

Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is aviation fuel produced from eligible non-fossil or recycled feedstocks through different approved production pathways. Some SAF pathways are based on biological or waste-derived feedstocks, while synthetic e-SAF is produced as an E-Fuel through Power-to-X processes.

Gas compression requirements vary considerably between SAF production pathways. Processes such as Fischer–Tropsch synthesis and Power-to-Liquid may require the compression of Hydrogen (H₂), Carbon Dioxide (CO₂), carbon monoxide or Synthesis Gas (Syngas). Other pathways may require hydrogen compression for feedstock conversion and upgrading.

The compressor solution must therefore be engineered for the specific process stage and gas composition. Required pressure, capacity, purity, temperature, contaminants and operating profile all influence compressor design, material selection, sealing systems and package configuration.

With more than 80 years of experience in reciprocating high pressure compressor technology, LMF develops tailor-made compressor solutions for SAF production. Every solution is individually engineered according to the selected production pathway, compressed gas, process conditions and applicable project specifications.

Recommended Compression Solutions by LMF

ISO 13631 Compressors

Recommended for continuous gas compression duties within SAF production processes requiring stable flow rates, flexible package engineering and reliable operation under project-specific conditions.

  • Capacity:
    up to 25 000 Nm³/h
  • Pressure:
    up to 200 bar
  • Power consumption:
    4 MW

API 618 Compressors

Recommended for demanding heavy-duty SAF production processes requiring high availability, continuous operation and project-specific engineering according to API 618.

  • Capacity:
    up to 40 000 Nm³/h
  • Pressure:
    up to 200 bar
  • Power consumption:
    6 MW

Selected References 

Pre-Select a Compressor for SAF Production with CompXpert

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FAQs

Sustainable Aviation Fuel is aviation fuel produced from eligible renewable, waste-derived or recycled feedstocks through approved production pathways. SAF must meet the applicable aviation fuel specifications before it can be used in aircraft.

No. Compression requirements depend on the feedstock and production pathway. Fischer–Tropsch, Power-to-Liquid and feedstock-upgrading processes involve different gases, pressure levels and operating conditions.

Depending on the production pathway, compressor solutions may handle hydrogen, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, synthesis gas and other process gases. The exact gas composition must be evaluated for each compression duty.

The Fischer–Tropsch process converts synthesis gas into hydrocarbons. Compression may be required during syngas preparation, before synthesis and in process-gas recycling, depending on the design of the production plant.

SAF is the broader category of sustainable aviation fuels produced through various eligible pathways. E-SAF, also known as synthetic aviation fuel or Power-to-Liquid aviation fuel, is produced using electricity-based hydrogen and a carbon source such as captured carbon dioxide.