ITT has strengthened its position in the global gas handling and marine technology markets with the acquisition of Köhler & Hörter GmbH, a family-owned German compressor manufacturer better known as KOHO. The deal, announced today, brings reciprocating compressor technology into ITT’s Svanehøj business portfolio, a leader in cryogenic pumps and marine service solutions.
Based in Hagen, Germany, KOHO is recognized for its specialized compressor systems used across multiple industrial sectors, including shipbuilding. The acquisition allows Svanehøj to broaden its range beyond cryogenic liquid pump systems to include complementary compressor technologies that are essential for managing hydrogen, hydrocarbons, and other challenging gases used in emerging energy applications.
The addition of KOHO positions ITT as a more comprehensive supplier for the energy transition, offering integrated technology for both liquid and gaseous fuels. Svanehøj already holds a significant footprint in the marine sector, with more than 14,500 cargo gas pumps delivered and over 1,000 fuel pumps currently in operation. By incorporating KOHO’s compressors, the company expands its offering to shipowners and shipyards preparing vessels for low-carbon and green fuel adoption, including LNG, ammonia, hydrogen, and CO₂.
The acquisition builds on a long-standing relationship between Svanehøj and KOHO, who have previously partnered on major vessel programs, including the Northern Lights CO₂ carriers in Norway and the Aurora class PCTC vessels from Höegh Autoliners. The Aurora platform is the first of its kind classified as “ammonia-ready” for future green fuel use.
This transaction marks Svanehøj’s second acquisition of the year. In January, the company purchased European Pump Services B.V., now operating as Svanehøj EPS, to expand its pump integration and service capabilities across industrial, offshore, and maritime sectors.
With global green fuel adoption in the marine fleet forecast to rise from 8% today to an estimated 90% by 2050, the integration of KOHO’s compressor technology is expected to help ITT capture the growing demand for mission-critical systems supporting next-generation vessels.
KEY QUOTE:
“This is a logical expansion for Svanehøj in the gas tanker segment, where we have delivered cargo pump systems and integrated services to LPG and LNG carriers for many years. By acquiring KOHO, we can now include high-quality compressors and related spare parts in offerings to our customers. KOHO adds specialist know-how and an attractive product portfolio. When combined with Svanehøj’s and ITT’s strengths in supply chain and sales, we believe we can unlock new opportunities that will strengthen and expand the company in the future.”
Søren Kringelholt, Chief Executive Officer, Svanehøj
