Framo AS is a Norwegian engineering and manufacturing company recognized globally for its specialized pumping systems used in the maritime and offshore industries. Headquartered in the Bergen region of Norway, the organization has a history stretching back to 1938, when it was established by Frank Mohn. For decades, the company operated as a family-owned enterprise under the name Frank Mohn AS, playing a central role in the development of the Norwegian maritime cluster. Since 2014, it has operated as a branded entity within the Alfa Laval Group, maintaining its distinct operational headquarters and production facilities in Western Norway.
The company’s primary influence lies in the tanker market, where it fundamentally altered cargo handling methods. Framo is credited with popularizing the submerged cargo pump system, a configuration where an individual pump is installed directly inside each tank. This design replaced traditional pump room arrangements on many vessels, particularly chemical and product tankers. By enabling ships to segregate cargoes effectively, this system allows for the safe simultaneous transport of various liquid chemicals and refined products. The technology significantly reduces port turnaround times by facilitating efficient cargo stripping and tank cleaning, which are critical operations for vessels carrying sensitive or hazardous liquids.
In the offshore energy sector, the company engineers pumping solutions for floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) units and fixed platform installations. These systems handle critical tasks such as seawater lift, water injection, and fire safety. The organization also produces equipment for oil recovery operations and cable-laying support. Manufacturing remains deeply rooted in Norway, with specialized factories located in Fusa, Flatøy, and Holsnøy. These facilities handle the production of hydraulic, electric, and pneumatic systems, ensuring that core technologies are developed in-house.
To support a global fleet, the company maintains service stations in major shipping hubs across Singapore, Houston, Rotterdam, and other key maritime locations. This network focuses on lifecycle support, providing inspections, maintenance, and rapid deployment of spare parts. Recently, the organization has applied its hydraulic expertise to the renewable energy and aquaculture sectors, adapting its pumping technologies for wind farm foundations and fish farming environments.
