Asia/Pacific News
MPA: Mass Flow Meter Technology is Well Proven
Mass flow metering tests completed by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) demonstrated the technology's transparency, efficiency, and productivity benefits, Singapore Minister for Transport Lui Tuck Yew has said.
He said 17 bunker tankers took part in the MPA test-bedding programme, with the first commercial bunker delivery using a mass flow meter in June 2012.
Altogether, more than 700 deliveries have been made under the program, and 11 bunker tankers have been fitted with the meters and are now in the process of receiving approval from the port.
The MPA committed $2 million from its Maritime Innovation and Technology (MINT) Fund to support test-bedding of mass flow meters.
"By having automatic measurements, tamper-evident seals and calibrated meters, the mass flow meter can reduce the likelihood of quantity disputes and enhance the transparency of the bunker delivery process," Lui said.
"The trials have also shown that mass flow meters can shorten each bunker delivery by as much as 3 hours, as compared to the conventional sounding method.
"These time-savings represent significant productivity gains for our bunkering industry."
Lui made the comments as he announced the date for implementation of the new mandated use of the meters in 2017.
