Merchant vessels are the backbone of global trade, moving everything from cars and containers to people. But the job isn’t simple: you need to keep engines cool, air systems comfortable, and fuel systems compliant with ever-stricter regulations.

When your heat exchangers underperform, you face higher fuel costs and the risk of downtime in port. That’s why our heat exchanger solutions are both compact and efficient, helping you protect engines, cut costs, and keep both cargo and crew safe.

merchant vessels

Why ship operators rely on Tranter’s solutions

Cover every duty with one partner

From propulsion to HVAC to auxiliary systems, our exchangers keep all your vessel’s cooling needs steady and reliable.

No seawater or fuel surprises

Marine-grade materials handle seawater corrosion and varied fuel systems so you aren’t left fighting early failures.

More space where it counts

Compact frames free up machinery-room footprint, giving you flexibility for retrofits or new equipment.

Safe machinery, comfortable crews

Stable thermal performance keeps engines protected and accommodation areas livable on long voyages.

Lower operating costs

Our designs are made to recover as much waste heat and cut pumping energy as possible, trimming OPEX across the fleet.

Backed wherever you sail

Access to OEM parts and service mean your vessels are supported no matter the route.

Two engineers in hard hats having a discussion

Merchant vessels

Applications in the merchant vessel industry

Clean fuel engines

As merchant fleets transition to low-sulphur fuels and LNG, stable heat transfer becomes critical.

Tranter exchangers provide the durability and performance needed for compliance and efficiency.

Engine cooling

Reliable engine cooling is non-negotiable. Our heat exchangers handle the thermal load, preventing costly overheating and helping operators stay on schedule.

HVAC systems

Crew comfort and control room stability depend on reliable HVAC.

Tranter solutions regulate temperature and humidity efficiently, keeping both people and equipment in safe operating ranges.

Why Tranter

A partner you can trust

Proven on board

Tranter heat exchangers are installed in merchant vessels worldwide.

OEM expertise

90+ years of heat exchanger design and thermal engineering knowledge.

Global reach

Service centers and supply chain support where and when you need them.

Application-driven design

Configured for the unique efficiency and durability demands of commercial vessels.

Innovation with your future in mind

Not every innovation is about raw efficiency. In merchant vessels, our R&D focuses on:

Plate patterns and flow paths that foul even less in humid marine conditions.
Developing alloys that extend exchanger life when handling varied fuel types.
Designing compact layouts that simplify integration into mixed-duty vessels.

Tranter FullServ® – service without limits

With Tranter FullServ®, you get lifecycle support for every brand of heat exchangers. We keep your equipment running, from inspection and reconditioning to emergency on-site service.

Our rapid-response teams and local service centers around the world ensure your exchangers deliver peak performance longer.

Resource center

Explore the exceptional service Tranter delivers

Parts and services

How we do it: Plate inspection and removal

When it comes to inspection and plate removal, it's crucial to pay attention to every detail. By following the necessary steps and taking the time to inspect and remove plates properly, we can ensure that your project is completed successfully. Learn more by listening to Dave Lusignolo, Director, Aftermarket Sales - North America

Parts and services

Secrets to longer heat exchanger life: Chemical cleaning explained

Chemical cleaning and rinse are essential steps in maintaining the performance of your heat exchanger. Whether it's removing liquids, or ensuring the longevity of machinery, chemical cleaning and rinse play a crucial role in the service process.

Resource center

Explore our latest guides and literature

Energy, heating and cooling Sustainability

Tranter heat exchangers in the sustainable data centers

The digitalization mega trend has resulted in exponential growth of data centers. Let’s take a look at how Tranter’s plate and frame heat exchangers can be used to make the datacenters more sustainable.

Download

Energy, Process industries Sustainability

Heat exchangers for post combustion carbon capture applications

Tranter’s heat exchangers have various applications across many different markets. Let’s take a look at how plate and frame heat exchangers can be used in CO2 capture applications to improve the total economy of the plant.