Asia/Pacific News
SK Energy Starts ULSFO Supply in Singapore
SK Energy International (SK Energy) has started to supply "ULSFO" marine fuel oil with a maximum 0.10 percent sulfur content in Singapore, the supplier has told Ship & Bunker.
SK Energy says it has hired exclusive barges for product delivery, in order to ensure quality standards and to make sure there are no contamination issues during transportation.
The product, which is also being supplied in South Korea and Rotterdam, is said to be fully compliant with, and compatible with all other, ISO8217 RME180 specification fuels.
Typical sulfur levels of the product were said to be around 0.087 percent, with a viscosity of around 20 to 30 cSt at 50°C "so that vessels not only help obtain optimal viscosity 10 cSt~17 cSt with perfect atomization in fuel nozzle, but also anticipate saving in fuel consumption."
The supplier also highlighted a further fuel savings potential for the product, as little sludge is said to be created after purification.
While specific pricing was not mentioned, the ULSFO product was said to be "much cheaper than LSMGO prices" and a spokesperson told Ship & Bunker a discount of $30 to Singapore LSMGO prices could be expected going forwards.
Improved lubricity over LSMGO was also noted as one of the product's benefits, "leading to relieve troubles such as leakage, sticking, abrasion and scuffing in fuel oil system," according to SK Energy.
The supplier also says its ULSFO products have "no compatibility issues" with High Sulphur Fuel Oil products from other suppliers.
Since January 1, 2015 bunkers with a maximum 0.10 percent sulfur content are required for use by vessels operating within Emission Control Areas (ECAs) in both North America and Europe.
