Concerns over the quality of very low sulfur fuel oil (VLSFO), crucial for meeting emission regulations, have resurfaced. Issues such as sediments and impurities not only accelerate wear but also risk clogging and damaging critical fuel system components, potentially leading to unplanned outages. The transition to VLSFO has resulted in persistent fuel quality problems across major bunkering hubs since its introduction over a decade ago.
A recent market analysis revealed that over 45% of global VLSFO supplies fail to meet ISO standards, with independent data indicating that more than half of tested samples were off-spec due to excessive sediment. Leading agencies like Bureau Veritas and VeriFuel have reported heightened levels of contaminants, particularly in Europe, where certain locations, such as Skagen, Norway, showed alarming off-spec rates.
CMT emphasizes the importance of rigorous monitoring to protect machinery and maintain operational reliability. Catalytic fines pose a significant threat, acting abrasively on engine components, while issues like wax formation and high viscosity disrupt fuel combustion and increase consumption. The consequences of inadequate monitoring are severe, as evidenced by incidents in Houston and Singapore, where numerous vessels were affected by contaminated fuel.
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