Fuels & Lubes

The Lloyd’s Register Fuel Oil Bunkering Analysis and Advisory Service (FOBAS) has identified Rotterdam port as having the largest number of off-specification bunker fuel samples between 15 to 30 September 2018.

FOBAS posted a total of 95 off-spec cases where a result was outside the 95% confidence limit of either ISO 8217 6th edition test parameter or a value given by the BDN or sample label during the second half of September.

The top bunker...

http://mfame.guru/fobas-rotterdam-tops-off-spec-bunker-port-in-h2-september/

Contamination problems in the US, Gulf and the Far East have affected hundreds of vessels. Alvin Forster Deputy director (Loss Prevention) and Louise Ferrari Deputy director (FD & D) of North published their views on contamination and North’s comprehensive guidance on bunkering and bunker claims in their website for their members.

Engines have been damaged, in some cases putting vessels in danger, vessels delays and causing numerous other...

http://mfame.guru/bunker-contaminants-fuelling-confusion/

• Some shippers are exploring the use of biofuels as the 2020 deadline approaches.
• It complies to the new regulations but the cost of blending mandates a  steep price rise.
• Their low-temperature functionality and shorter shelf life further complicate the matter.
• SWOT analysis established large scale and storage problems.
• Some Mediterranean suppliers have already started using it but this requires better infrastructure and engine modules.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has set...

http://mfame.guru/are-biofuels-a-viable-alternative-for-the-shipping-sector/