World News
Skuld Releases Second Warning on Fuel Handling for ECA Compliance
Marine insurer Skuld has issued a second warning on handling fuel for Emission Control Area (ECA) compliance, warning that vessel tanks and engines need to be technically able to handle the change to low-sulfur fuel.
The list includes reminders that existing engine rooms and tanks were originally designed for heavy fuel oil (HFO), and therefore extensive preparation beforehand will be needed to make sure the vessel is able to adjust to various types of ultra low sulfur fuel (ULSF).
Skuld also warned that cross contamination of fuels can easily happen, an added problem as the two fuels used will likely have different viscosity and temperatures.
"Members are recommended that they take the extra time to review their present arrangements to double check and ensure that vessels and crews are ready for January," Skuld said.
The regulations will limit sulfur content in marine fuel used in ECAs to 0.10 percent by weight beginning next year, which has prompted many companies to switch to alternatives such as low-sulfur fuel oil or marine gas oil (MGO).
The company said that the advisory, which was addressed to shipowners and technical managers, was brought to them by scrubber specialists Alfa Laval.
The first warning was sent out late last month telling ship owners and operators that improperly-prepared tanks for new low-sulfur fuel could cause sudden loss of propulsion in some ships.
Key Bunker Prices More
| VLSFO | MGO | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $/mt | +/- | $/mt | +/- | |
| Singapore | 649.50 | 2.00 | 778.50 | 8.50 |
| Rotterdam | 602.00 | 0.50 | 748.00 | 6.00 |
| Houston | 624.00 | 5.00 | 792.00 | 3.50 |
| Fujairah | 649.50 | 2.00 | 898.00 | 3.00 |
| Global 20 Ports Average | 662.00 | 2.00 | 855.00 | 1.50 |
| Global 4 Ports Average | 631.00 | 1.00 | 804.00 | 0.50 |
| Global Average Bunker Price | 717.50 | 0.50 | 913.50 | 1.00 |
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