Your Questions. Our Answers.

FAQs on fuels, service and after-sales support, combustion systems, and standards and regulations.

Here you will find concise answers to questions we regularly encounter in our day-to-day project work – technically sound, easy to understand and to the point. The content provides a quick overview and helps you get to grips with the subject at first glance. If a topic requires more in-depth information, the relevant categories will guide you to the appropriate further reading in the ‘Know-how’ section.

Categories.

Select a section to view all the questions together.

General and Business

SAACKE: markets, services and positioning explained in a nutshell.

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Industrial combustion systems

Applications, range, services and benefits in the industrial sector.

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Marine & Offshore

Questions regarding maritime applications, operations and service.

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Consulting

Typical questions relating to analysis, consultancy and optimisation.

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Service & Aftersales

Maintenance, repairs, spare parts, retrofitting – what customers often want to know.

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Fuels & Decarbonisation

An overview of alternative fuels and their technical implications for operations.

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Frequently asked questions.

Frequently accessed and a good place to start.

What does SAACKE stand for as a company?

SAACKE specialises in combustion technology and services for industry, the maritime sector and the offshore sector. Our aim is to deliver measurable improvements to plant performance – with a focus on minimal emissions, high efficiency and operational stability, as well as long-term value retention throughout the entire life cycle.

We are guided by clear values: we actively shape change and communicate our objectives clearly. We take a long-term approach, acting responsibly towards the environment and stability. And we are committed to collaboration characterised by trust, respect and team spirit – both internally and with our customers.

This is also reflected in our three customer promises:

  • Minimal environmental impact
  • High-Efficiency Combustion
  • Reliable Long-Term Value

Behind these promises lies our system expertise, which draws on engineering, practical experience, and service—from planning and implementation to ongoing development during operation.

Our Responsibility

What solutions and systems does SAACKE offer?

SAACKE offers solutions for burners and combustion systems, including the associated design, control, and integration into the plant. Depending on the project, this may include:

  • Burner solutions for various requirements and fuels
  • Combustion systems, including controls, safety systems, and peripherals
  • Modifications and retrofits of existing systems

The right solution depends on the application, constraints, and objectives.

Industrial Products Marine Products

What role do burner controls play in efficiency, emissions, and safety?

Burner control systems are the key to operating a combustion plant efficiently, with low emissions, and reliably—because they integrate control, monitoring, and operation. se@vis is a comprehensive combustion management system that provides transparency into the plant’s day-to-day operations and simplifies its operation.

For operators, this means greater transparency, more stable operational control, and a system that not only enables efficiency and low emissions but also makes them manageable in day-to-day operations.

More Information

What does the name “Ombustion” stand for?

The name “Ombustion” is a play on the word “combustion.” “Taking the C out of Combustion” essentially means reducing carbon (C)—and thus CO₂ emissions—in the combustion process through better design, optimization, and appropriate operational measures.

We are Ombustion

How quickly can I reach Marine Service, and how does the support process work when I need service?

When a critical situation arises on board, quick responsiveness and clear communication are essential. Our Marine Service is available 24/7, and we respond within 24 hours so that the next steps can be coordinated promptly.

Please contact our service

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General and Business.

What does SAACKE stand for as a company?

SAACKE specializes in combustion technology and services for the industrial, marine, and offshore sectors. Our goal is to measurably improve the performance of operating plants—with a focus on minimal emissions, high efficiency, and operational stability, as well as long-term value retention throughout the entire life cycle.

We are guided by clear values: We actively shape change and clearly communicate our goals. We take a long-term approach, acting responsibly toward the environment and stability. And we prioritize collaboration characterized by trust, respect, and team spirit—both internally and with our customers.

This is also reflected in our three customer promises:

  • Minimal Environmental Impact
  • High-Performance Combustion
  • Reliable Long-Term Value

Behind these promises lies system expertise derived from engineering, application experience, and service—from planning through implementation to ongoing development during operation.

Our responsibility

In which markets and sectors does SAACKE operate?

Our solutions are used in industrial processes as well as in the maritime sector and in offshore applications. Typical areas of application include thermal processes, steam generation and energy-related plants, in which burner and combustion systems play a key role.

Depending on the project, we provide support for new builds, modernisation or retrofitting – and also when existing systems need to be optimised or further developed whilst in operation, for example with a view to improving efficiency and reducing emissions.

Industrial applications Marine applications

Which sectors does SAACKE typically work with?

SAACKE operates across a range of sectors wherever process heat, steam or thermal energy is required and where there are high standards regarding operational safety and emissions. Depending on the specific focus, these include, amongst others:

  • Process industries and energy applications
  • Plant engineering and industrial operators with their own heat generators
  • Shipping companies, shipyards and operators of maritime facilities

Which sectors take centre stage in each individual case depends heavily on the application and the project objective

How does SAACKE differ from other suppliers of combustion technology?

SAACKE stands out above all for its combination of system understanding, engineering and practical experience in industry and the navy. Rather than focusing on individual components, the emphasis is on the specific application: fuel, process requirements, control systems, emissions, interfaces and operation.


In addition, our service and spare parts business help to improve solutions in the field and to further develop plant over many years.

What solutions and systems does SAACKE offer?

SAACKE offers solutions for burners and combustion systems, including the associated design, control and integration into the plant. Depending on the project, this may include:

  • Burner solutions for different requirements and fuels
  • Combustion systems, including control systems, safety technology and peripherals
  • Modifications and retrofits to existing plants

The most suitable solution depends on the application, constraints and objectives.

Industrial products  Marine products

What services does SAACKE offer in addition to its products and systems?

In addition to products and systems, SAACKE provides support throughout the entire project and plant life cycle – from engineering and project support through to commissioning and ongoing operational support. Depending on requirements, this includes optimisation, maintenance and repairs, as well as the supply of suitable components and spare parts.


The specific scope of services depends on the project, the plant design and the responsibilities on site.

Consulting  Service Industry  Service Marine

What role do engineering and system design play at SAACKE?

Engineering and system design are crucial, as combustion technology always operates in conjunction with the process, fuel, control systems and safety concept. An appropriate design influences operational safety, combustion stability, emission behaviour and subsequent ease of operation.


SAACKE uses engineering to tailor solutions to specific conditions, rather than simply adopting standard solutions.

How does SAACKE help customers to reduce emissions?

SAACKE supports emissions reduction primarily through appropriate burner technology, efficient design and operational optimisation. Depending on the plant, measures may include, for example:

  • Improving combustion quality through design and control
  • Adjustments to air flow, fuel supply and control systems
  • modernisation of existing systems where the technology and condition make this a sensible option

The extent to which emissions can be reduced depends primarily on the fuel, the plant, the operating conditions and the local circumstances

What role do alternative fuels play in SAACKE’s solutions?

Alternative fuels are a key component of SAACKE’s combustion solutions. As requirements regarding carbon footprint, availability and regulation change, we support our customers in utilising a wide variety of fuels in a technically sound manner, whilst considering the implications for burners, control systems, safety technology and plant operation.


The focus is on how existing or new systems can be designed to suit the planned fuels and operational objectives.

FAQ: Fuels

How is SAACKE preparing for new technical and regulatory requirements?

SAACKE monitors technical developments and regulatory frameworks and uses these to derive requirements for design, documentation, safety and emissions performance. In practice, this often means:

  • Further development of technology and engineering standards
  • Assessment of fuel options and possible retrofitting pathways
  • support with modernisation when requirements change

In addition, through Ombustion by SAACKE, we also provide consultancy support, for example in evaluating options, identifying potential for optimisation or preparing for fuel conversions. Which steps are appropriate in a specific case depends on the application, location, operation and objectives.

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Industrial combustion systems.

What solutions does SAACKE offer in the industrial sector relating to combustion systems?

SAACKE offers highly efficient, low-emission and reliable solutions for boilers and process combustion systems – ranging from standard components to bespoke systems. We support both conventional applications and projects with specific requirements regarding fuels, emissions and plant operation.

Industry overview

For which applications are SAACKE combustion systems suitable?

Combustion systems are used wherever process heat and energy need to be supplied reliably – for example, in industrial plants, power stations and thermal processes. Typical applications include large-water-tube boilers, water-tube boilers, thermal oil heaters, thermal processing plants, and ignition and auxiliary burners.

Industrial applications

Which sectors use SAACKE combustion solutions?

SAACKE systems are used worldwide across many industrial sectors – for example, by energy suppliers, in refineries, in the chemical industry and in food production. The specific process and the appropriate system design for the respective application are always crucial.

Find out more

What products are typically found in an industrial combustion system?

In practice, a combustion system consists of several components that are designed to work together. These include, in particular, burners, combustion chambers/hot gas generators and burner control systems – supplemented by other components such as modernisation modules and fuel supply lines, depending on the plant design and the fuel used.

Product overview

What advantages do SAACKE burners offer in industrial applications?

The burner is key to the efficiency, flexibility and operational reliability of a combustion system. SAACKE burner systems are designed for a wide range of applications and are capable of handling not only standard fuels but also more demanding media. A wide control range and minimal excess air are key factors in ensuring efficient operation.

About the burners

What role do burner control systems play in terms of efficiency, emissions and safety?

Burner control systems are the key to operating a combustion plant efficiently, with low emissions and in a safe manner – because this is where control, monitoring and operation come together. se@vis provides a comprehensive combustion management system that makes the plant’s day-to-day operations transparent and simplifies its operation.

For operators, this means: greater transparency, more stable control during operation and a system that not only enables efficiency and low emissions, but also makes them manageable in day-to-day operations.

More information

How does SAACKE help to reduce emissions?

SAACKE supports emissions reduction primarily through appropriate burner technology, efficient design and operational optimisation. Depending on the plant, measures may include, for example:

  • Improving combustion quality through design and control
  • Adjustments to air flow, fuel supply and control systems
  • modernisation of existing systems where the technology and condition make this a viable option

The aim is to ensure compliance with the applicable requirements – and, depending on the application, to achieve emission levels below the required limit values. The extent to which emissions can be reduced depends primarily on the fuel, the plant, the operating conditions and the on-site circumstances.

Which fuels can be used with SAACKE combustion systems?

In addition to standard fuels, SAACKE systems also support a wide range of special and alternative fuels – including hydrogen, low-calorific gases, special gases, biofuels, special liquid fuels, as well as powdered and low-calorific liquid fuels. Further details are provided on the respective fuel pages.

Overview of fuels

What services does SAACKE offer in relation to planning, implementation and operation?

Industrial combustion systems are not just about components, but about system expertise. SAACKE typically provides support from the planning stage through to delivery and commissioning and beyond – including advice on modernising existing plants and support with fuel conversions.

Contact

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Marine & Offshore.

What does SAACKE stand for in the maritime sector?

SAACKE provides safe, environmentally friendly and energy-efficient combustion and energy systems on board – for seagoing vessels, offshore installations and tankers. We support projects throughout their entire life cycle, from engineering and construction through to commissioning and servicing.

Marine overview

Why is ‘future fuel readiness’ so important in the naval sector?

The maritime sector is under pressure to reduce emissions – yet at the same time, it is not always clear today which fuels will prevail in the long term. That is why many operators are opting for systems that operate efficiently whilst also being designed to accommodate future fuels.

For which types of vessel are SAACKE solutions designed?

Our systems are used in a variety of maritime applications – for example, on oil and product tankers, container ships, passenger and cruise ships, and offshore platforms.

Marine applications

What are the typical applications covered by SAACKE on board?

Modern ships require precisely controllable heat sources – for example, for steam generation, heating processes or exhaust gas after-treatment. SAACKE supplies boiler, burner and system solutions for these applications, complemented by heat recovery and gas systems.

Which product ranges does the marine portfolio cover?

The Marine Portfolio comprises the key components for on-board power generation: marine boilers, marine burners, economisers, waste heat recovery units (WHRU), gas combustion units (GCU) and other gas systems.

Marine products

What does WHRU stand for in the Marine Portfolio?

A WHRU (Waste Heat Recovery Unit) uses exhaust heat to generate steam, thereby supporting a more efficient energy supply on board. By utilising existing waste heat, fuel consumption can be reduced – with a corresponding impact on energy requirements and operating costs

More information

What role do Gas Combustion Units (GCU) play on board?

Gas Combustion Units (GCU) are used wherever gaseous media need to be combusted safely, reliably and with low emissions on board – even under demanding conditions at sea. They are a key component in ensuring operational safety and emissions management in such applications.

Overview of Gas Combustion Units

What is the difference between the GCU compact and the GCU evo?

The GCU compact is designed as a robust, tried-and-tested solution for maritime operations, whilst the GCU evo, as a further development, is specifically designed for applications where emissions are a key concern and is engineered to meet IMO compliance and classification society approval.


Both variants operate with a high air excess to achieve low flame temperatures and, consequently, low NOₓ emissions. The design ensures stable combustion to prevent the flame from coming into contact with the combustion chamber walls, even in rough seas.

What fuels and fuel strategies does SAACKE support in the marine sector – and how is the transition being achieved?

SAACKE systems are designed for fuel flexibility – from conventional marine fuels to alternative options such as LNG, HVO, methanol, ammonia or hydrogen.


In practice, the transition often takes place in stages: operating existing systems efficiently, reducing emissions and then – depending on the type of vessel and destination – implementing the appropriate fuel strategy. It is crucial that the burners, control systems and safety concept are compatible with the planned fuel combination.

Marine fuels

What options are there for electrification in port operations?

A key factor is the supply of heat via shore power whilst in port. This is precisely what GreenDock is designed for: zero-emission heat generation for steam, thermal oil or hot water via shore power, whereby the burner remains off and integration is achieved via an electric economiser.

SAACKE Greendock

Does SAACKE also supply boiler systems that can be powered by electricity?

Yes. In the marine sector, SAACKE also offers boiler systems that can be configured as electrified – in other words, systems that generate heat using electrical energy rather than combustion. This is particularly useful where emissions need to be reduced during certain phases of operation, or where electrical energy (e.g. via the ship’s electrical system or shore power interfaces) is planned to be used as a heat source.

Marine boiler

What are the practical benefits of electrification and hybrid systems?

Electrification can help to reduce emissions, particularly in port operations, and to implement the transition to new energy and fuel strategies in a pragmatic way. The advantage is that heat can be supplied electrically during certain phases of operation without the need to switch the entire ship’s operations to a new fuel straight away.


This makes electrification and hybrid concepts a sensible intermediate step for many operators on the path to the maritime energy transition.

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Consulting.

What does the name Ombustion stand for?

The name ‘Ombustion’ is a play on the word ‘combustion’. ‘Taking the C out of Combustion’ essentially means reducing carbon (C) – and thus CO₂ emissions – in the combustion process through better design, optimisation and appropriate operational measures.

We are Ombustion

What does Ombustion support – and what does the technical consultancy involve?

Technical consultancy helps to bring about measurable improvements to thermal processes: analysis, optimisation, increased efficiency, emission reduction, and strategies for fuel switching and alternative fuels.


Ombustion by SAACKE provides a structured approach to this – offering a sound basis for decision-making rather than trial and error.

Range of services

For which systems and applications is a consultation particularly useful?

Consultancy is particularly useful where thermal processes are complex or where requirements are increasing. Typical applications include industrial furnaces, boilers, thermal after-combustion (TNV), combustion chambers, dryers and other process heating systems.


Ombustion by SAACKE provides manufacturer-independent support – tailored to the specific plant and objectives.

How does Ombustion differ from traditional engineering?

Traditional engineering often relies on simplified assumptions and standards. Ombustion by SAACKE combines process engineering analysis, operational data and measured values with practical expertise – and utilises simulations where necessary – to assess flow patterns, temperature fields and reaction zones in a realistic manner. This enables risks and opportunities to be identified at an early stage, before any investment is made.

When is a simulation (e.g. CFD) appropriate – and when is a quick check sufficient?

Not every issue requires the most in-depth analysis. Simulations are particularly useful in cases involving retrofits, fuel switching, special fuels, or when emissions or operational problems arise. In many cases, a structured assessment is sufficient to identify clear courses of action. Ombustion by SAACKE tailors the level of detail to the specific issue at hand.

CFD simulations

Is the advice tied to specific products or manufacturers?

No. Ombustion by SAACKE takes a technology-neutral and manufacturer-independent approach. The focus is on finding the most technically sound solution for the process – the analysis will determine whether operational measures, adjustments to the control system or peripherals, or hardware changes are ultimately the most appropriate course of action.

Does a consultation always lead to major refurbishments or new burners?

Not necessarily. Improvements can often be achieved simply through operational optimisation, adjustments to control systems, air distribution, fuel preparation or minor modifications. Ombustion by SAACKE only recommends more extensive measures if they are technically well-founded and demonstrably improve performance.

What results does a consultancy project typically deliver?

Typical elements include a structured analysis of the current situation, an assessment of options (e.g. efficiency, emissions, stability) and specific recommendations for action, ranked in order of priority.


Ombustion by SAACKE thus provides a basis for decision-making that safeguards investments and makes it easier to plan measures

How does Ombustion ensure that recommendations are practical to implement?

Consultancy is only of any use if it works in practice. Ombustion by SAACKE combines analysis with practical experience (data/measurements, operational experience and, where appropriate, simulation) and formulates measures in such a way that they are technically feasible and manageable in day-to-day plant operations – rather than remaining a theoretical concept.

When is it particularly worthwhile to use a consultancy?

Ombustion is particularly useful in the case of complex thermal processes, where emission requirements are stricter, where fuel changes are planned (e.g. to hydrogen), or where there is potential for improvements in performance and emissions. It is less suitable where the focus is solely on standardised plants with no need for optimisation or purely on spare parts issues.

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Service & Aftersales.

Industry

What benefits does the SAACKE service offer to industrial businesses?

A professional service directly contributes to safe and stable operation. We help customers achieve maximum operational reliability, high energy efficiency and environmentally friendly operation – whilst ensuring the long-term service life of the plant. Should the need arise, our support also ensures rapid and reliable assistance in an emergency.


The formal framework is also important here: in our view, this includes legal certainty, transparent documentation and personalised support.

What services does SAACKE offer for industrial combustion plants?

Typical services include commissioning, inspection and maintenance, support in the event of faults and breakdowns, spare parts and consumables, optimisation, and modernisation/retrofitting. We provide support to ensure that measures are implemented correctly from a technical perspective and documented in a transparent manner.

Overview of services

How often should inspections and maintenance be carried out?

The operator determines the intervals – taking into account the requirements of the Industrial Safety Regulation. In many cases, maintenance is carried out at least once a year.
Based on our practical experience, we often recommend an additional inspection (e.g. on a seasonal basis) to identify issues at an early stage and make maintenance planning more predictable. We can assist in determining appropriate intervals based on the system, its usage, the manufacturer’s specifications and operational experience.

Inspection & Maintenance

What are the benefits of a maintenance contract that includes inspection and maintenance packages?

A maintenance contract provides for predictable, regular condition assessments and helps to ensure that the plant is operated within the optimum range at all times.


Packages help to ensure that the necessary consumables and typical replacement parts are kept in stock in a structured manner, so that service calls can be prepared more efficiently and downtime can be planned more effectively.

What are inspection and maintenance packages – and what are they for?

Packages combine typical consumables and predefined replacement parts that are regularly required during inspection and maintenance.


This makes it easier to plan service visits, reduces the need for on-site coordination and helps to ensure that maintenance is carried out efficiently and to a consistent standard.

Is it possible to take out a maintenance contract without a package?

The exact structure of contracts and packages depends on the service concept and the system. In practice, consumables and defined replacement items are often included, as they make service calls easier to plan and help ensure a consistent level of maintenance.


If customers wish to deviate from this, there should be a clear technical justification and this should be documented, as this may alter responsibilities and risks during operation.

Why do certain components have to be replaced in accordance with the specifications?

Replacement intervals are generally based on the manufacturer’s specifications and on requirements for safe operation – in the German context, these are often also based on the Industrial Safety Regulation.


Deviations are possible in individual cases, but must then be technically justified and documented, as this shifts responsibility and risk within the organisation. We explain the background transparently and provide a technical recommendation.

Can operators carry out maintenance and simple tasks themselves?

Depending on the plant and staff qualifications, some of the tasks can be carried out in-house – particularly when it comes to visual inspections, simple checks or support work.


However, safety-critical tasks require experience, appropriate training and clearly defined responsibilities. We train operators and work with them to determine which tasks can be carried out in-house and which we will undertake.

Can components be sourced from other suppliers if SAACKE fits them?

In the case of safety-critical systems, it is not only ‘function’ that is crucial, but above all specification and suitability (materials, design, approvals, quality).


For reasons of liability and accountability, we therefore generally install components whose requirements and quality we can reliably assess. This ensures that technical responsibility for our work remains clear, traceable and documentable.

What information would help to ensure that quotations, orders and assignments can be processed more quickly?

Just a few clear details are often enough to help us identify and categorise your enquiry quickly: photos of the component and the type plate, the system name/project, a brief description of the fault or the required action, and – if available – documents such as parts lists or circuit diagrams.


This enables us to process enquiries more quickly, match parts correctly and prepare for call-outs in a targeted manner.

Information required for spare parts enquiries

Marine

What does the marine after-sales division at SAACKE involve?

The Marine Aftersales division covers all services that support the safe operation of your boiler, burner and control systems throughout their entire life cycle.
 

This includes worldwide service (maintenance, inspection, fault response), boiler repairs (from damage assessment to repair) as well as spare parts and kits for on-board supply – including for systems from other manufacturers. In addition, SAACKE provides support for modernisation and retrofitting projects where existing systems need to be technically adapted, operated more efficiently or prepared to meet new requirements.

How quickly can Marine Service be contacted, and what is the support process like in the event of a service call?

When a critical situation arises on board, prompt availability and clear communication are essential. Our Marine Service is available 24/7 and we’ll get back to you within 24 hours so that the next steps can be agreed swiftly.

Please contact our customer service team

Does SAACKE provide support worldwide – even at short notice in ports?

Yes. Our service is designed for global operations – with strategically located service centres and teams that can coordinate operations at short notice.


This is particularly helpful when timeframes are tight or the next port of call has already been decided.

What does the Marine Service typically involve?

The Marine Service covers the typical areas relating to boiler, burner and control systems:

  • Maintenance and inspection
  • Repairs
  • Spare parts
  • Service packages/maintenance schedules
  • Online monitoring
  • Emissions monitoring and adjustment
  • Energy/efficiency consultancy
  • Safety & health checks
  • Crew training

Service overview

Does SAACKE also support systems that are not manufactured by SAACKE?

Yes. Mixed fleets are common in the shipping industry. SAACKE therefore not only supports its own systems, but also provides assistance with other manufacturers’ systems – in terms of both servicing and spare parts and repairs.

Does SAACKE provide support for boiler repairs on board – and what services are available?

At SAACKE, boiler repair services range from damage assessment and emergency repairs to retubing, furnace lining/refractory work, insulation, soot blower services and comprehensive repairs.


Depending on requirements, these are supplemented by additional mechanical services (e.g. NDT, pipework, cleaning) and engineering support.

Overview of boiler repairs
 

Does SAACKE also carry out boiler repairs at sea, in port or in dry dock?

Yes. Boiler repairs must be tailored to the practical realities of operations. SAACKE is structured in such a way that work can be carried out at sea, in port or in dry dock – tailored to the available time slots and the situation on board.

Does SAACKE carry out boiler repairs regardless of the manufacturer?

Yes. SAACKE provides support for boiler repairs across a range of manufacturers and boiler types – including waste heat recovery systems and thermal oil systems.


What is crucial is a thorough technical assessment and a repair solution that can be implemented in a manner appropriate to the boiler class.

What spare parts packages does SAACKE offer for marine applications?

For on-board operations, ready-made kits are often the most practical solution. SAACKE offers, amongst other things:

  • Safe Return to Port (SRTP),
  • 5-year overhaul
  • critical on-board stock
  • condition-based selection of spare parts

Spare parts overview

Does SAACKE also supply spare parts for non-SAACKE systems – and which brands does SAACKE cover?

Yes. SAACKE offers a wide range of SAACKE and non-SAACKE components and supports the supply of spare parts for numerous third-party brands.


The portfolio includes brands such as Alfa Laval (Aalborg), Weishaupt, Miura, Riello, Siemens, Schneider Electric, Danfoss, Honeywell, Grundfos and many more.

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Fuels & Decarbonisation.


What alternative fuels could be used as a substitute for natural gas?

Depending on the application, natural gas can be partially or completely replaced by alternative fuels. These include, for example, hydrogen, biogases, synthetic gases, liquid biogenic fuels, as well as industrial residues with energy content or biogenic dusts. Which option is appropriate depends primarily on the process, plant technology, local availability and the objectives (CO₂, costs, security of supply).

What are the typical challenges associated with alternative fuels?

Alternative fuels often differ significantly in terms of calorific value, combustion behaviour, flame speed and emissions. Burners, control systems and, in some cases, the process itself must therefore be designed accordingly. The aim is to ensure that operation remains stable, safe and efficient – even when fuel quality fluctuates.

Can combustion plants be designed to accommodate multiple fuels?

Yes, in many cases a combustion system can be designed to accommodate multiple fuels – for example, natural gas plus an alternative option, or standard fuels plus process residues. This can enhance security of supply, allow for a more flexible response to changes in price and availability, and support a phased transition.

What is the best way to go about switching to alternative fuels?

A good place to start is a technical and economic assessment of the existing plant. This involves, amongst other things: which fuels are realistically available at the site, what is technically feasible, what adjustments are required, and what CO₂ and economic benefits are plausible. On this basis, a conversion strategy can be developed that can be implemented in stages. Our consultancy team will be happy to assist you with this.

Consulting

Why are industrial companies currently focusing so much on alternative fuels?

Common drivers include rising energy costs, CO₂ costs, demands from customer markets and the desire for greater security of supply. Furthermore, utilising a company’s own by-products or residual materials can be economically attractive. Fuel flexibility is therefore becoming a strategic issue for many companies.

Can industrial waste be used as fuel?

Yes, many processes produce by-products or residues with usable energy content. Provided the properties are suitable and the system is designed accordingly, such materials can be utilised to generate energy. This can reduce disposal costs, provide additional energy and improve the carbon footprint.

What role does hydrogen play as a fuel in industrial combustion systems?

Hydrogen is a key component in the transition to a low-carbon economy, but it presents specific technical challenges. It can be used both as a blend and as a primary fuel. Depending on the application, SAACKE burners can handle a hydrogen blend of up to 20 per cent without any fundamental system modifications – and up to 100 per cent hydrogen is possible if the plant, control system and safety and monitoring concept are designed accordingly.

Find out more

HVO: Can I use HVO as a drop-in fuel?

HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) is often regarded as an alternative to conventional liquid fuels because it can be used in many applications with minimal conversion effort. Whether, and to what extent, HVO is suitable for a specific plant depends, amongst other things, on approvals, fuel quality, fuel handling and operating conditions – to ensure that operations remain stable and safe.
 

Find out more

Wood dust: What is important to bear in mind with powdered fuels?

Dust-like fuels such as wood dust present technical challenges, as the dosing, conveying technology and burner design must all work together precisely. Furthermore, properties such as particle size, moisture content and ash content play a role in terms of operational stability, emissions and maintenance requirements. With the right design, dust-like fuels can be a viable option for energy recovery.

Find out more

Are alternative fuels automatically climate-neutral?

Not automatically. The carbon footprint depends heavily on the source and the production process. Biofuels can – depending on the supply chain – achieve very good results; ‘green’ hydrogen can be virtually carbon-neutral; whilst other alternatives do reduce the use of fossil fuels, they are not necessarily emission-free. For a robust assessment, it is worth looking at the entire value chain.

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