VISWALAB: Update on Houston Bunker Fuel Problems

by Viswa Group
Monday July 17, 2023

Viswa has conducted thorough investigations into fuel pump problem samples bunkered in Houston, and we would like to provide a more detailed update on these fuel pump issues.

All three samples originated from a single supplier. The vessel experienced fuel pump malfunctions and corrosion problems. These fuels have a high sediment content and demonstrate poor storage stability properties. Through GCMS-CRA analysis of these samples, we identified the presence of various compounds, including 2-Ethylhexanol, DHDCPD, Tetrahydro-DCPD, Tetrachloroethylene, and Ethylene glycol, each at different levels. While DHDCPD and Tetrahydro-DCPD showed the highest concentrations, it is important to note that we have tested other VLSFOs with high concentrations of these compounds, and they did not result in any issues.

The recent Houston bunker fuel problem case was specifically associated with samples containing the combination of contaminants mentioned above. At elevated temperatures within the fuel pump, a chemical reaction between the Glycol compounds and DCPD compounds can occur, leading to the formation of polyester compounds. The presence of these components in bunker fuel can accelerate corrosion of fuel system components, resulting in equipment damage, leaks, and potential safety hazards.

Furthermore, we would like to highlight that we received reports of similar fuel pump issues from Singapore and Houston ports last year. These cases also involved the same set and combination of contaminants: 2-Ethylhexanol, DHDCPD, Tetrahydro-DCPD, Tetrachloroethylene, and Ethylene glycol.

To safeguard the machinery and the vessel, we highly recommend utilizing the VLSFO POMP (Peace of Mind Package). This comprehensive package includes long-term storage stability assessment as well as a GCMS screening test which can detect the presence of at least 16 compounds. By proactively implementing this solution, you can identify potential issues and take appropriate measures to prevent fuel pump problems.

Please don't hesitate to contact us if you require any further information or assistance.

About Viswa Group

The Viswa Group is a purpose driven organization with a passion to help the customers in the Marine and Petrochemical Industries. Viswa’s method of working is from inside out. It starts with the question, “Why are we doing this?” and further goes on to “What are we doing?” and then to “How are we doing it?” The dimension of Why is unique to Viswa.

This passion to serve the industry has led Viswa into areas of detailed analysis of the fuels and identifying contaminants and adulterants in the fuel using statistical methods data analysis to pin point problem areas globally. Viswa has developed algorithms and benchmarks to make a complex industry much simpler to understand.

With 8 Labs located Globally, the highly experienced and trained staff at the various Viswa locations works with a single focused objective of customer satisfaction in the areas of Fuels, Lubes, Surveys and Water Testing.

Well-versed in the complex regulatory landscape governing marine fuels, Viswa helps ship owners and operators comply with international standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), ensuring environmental responsibility and safety at sea. Viswa assist ship operators in implementing proactive maintenance strategies to preserve and extend the lifespan of their equipment and reduce operational risks. Viswa is strongly committed to providing solutions to the problems our customers face and to empower our customers by sharing our knowledge, our research, and our problem solving abilities.

To contact the editor responsible for this story email us at editor@shipandbunker.com