CLASS society DNV GL is warning that switching from standard bunker to low-sulphur fuel is not a straightforward process because of the different properties of the two fuel types.
Standard bunker and low-sulphur fuel, or marine gas oil (MGO) have operating temperatures that differ more than 100 degrees Celsius.
Changing from one to the other can cause a rapid drop in temperature, potentially causing thermal shock to engine equipment. The difference in viscosity, or lubrication quality, can also be a problem for fuel pumps and filters.
To help make judgments, DNV GL has unveiled its fuel change-over (FCO) calculator software ahead of new regulations that require ships to low sulphur fuel from January in northern European and North American waters, reports Digital Ship.
Come New Year, ships traversing emission control areas will not be permitted to use standard bunker.
"Taking into account variables such as a vessel's fuel system layout, any constraints on temperature and the variable sulphur content of fuels, the FCO calculator can significantly reduce the risk of human error during the preparation of the change-over process," said senior project engineer Joerg Lampe.
The software uses numerical simulation that DNV GL says is more accurate than previous linear models and indicates optimised lead time for the change-over process, as well as costs and the maximum hourly consumption to meet constraints.
WORLD SHIPPING
04 December 2014 - 22:55
DNV GL unveils fuel change-over calculator for low sulphur switch
CLASS society DNV GL is warning that switching from standard bunker to low-sulphur fuel is not a straightforward process because of the different properties of the two fuel types.
WORLD SHIPPING
04 December 2014 - 22:55
DNV GL unveils fuel change-over calculator for low sulphur switch
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