The US-based Taronis fuels announced the launch of its first-ever production facility in the port of Amsterdam; The facility will be dedicated to the production of bio-based welding gas, a fuel type commonly used in the construction and shipbuilding industries.
Cutting steel with welding gas, also known as acetylene gas, includes the use of ultra-high energy density in order to ensure consistently high flame temperatures; Yet, this comes with risks for the workers and the use of gas is based on some strict rules.
Therefore, the company developed the MagneGas fuel, an alternative to acetylene gas produced from several types of liquid waste.
Firstly, the facility will be used for the production of ethanol waste; MagneGas has supporters stating that the fuel is safer in terms of use, storage and transport than regular acetylene gas. Other benefits include its superior cutting properties and superior sustainability performance due to the use of ethanol waste.
The US company opted for the port of Amsterdam as their base as Amsterdam has a reputation on its sustainable methods, combined with a fertile sales market due to its proximity to the sea, good port-hinterland connectivity, and aviation links.
Taronis Fuels’ new site will be located on the Australiëhavenweg in the port of Amsterdam. The facility is scheduled to become operational in 2020, once the development of the production plant (due to start imminently) has been finalised.
In mid-summer, the port partnered with H2Ships initiative to establish the essential conditions for a successful market introduction of hydrogen as a fuel for shipping. Also, in line with its sustainable plan, the port of Rotterdam highlighted the importance of collaboration between key players of the shipping industry to boost offshore wind growth.
