Operational concerns from compliance of IMO2020 sulphur limit through VLSFO

Abstract

From Jan 01, 2020, International Maritime Organisation (IMO) reduced the permissible sulphur content from bunker fuel used on ships from 3.5 % m/m in 2012 to 0.50 % m/m. The maritime industry is consequently abandoning High Sulphur Fuel Oil (HSFO) and employing Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) blends or using the Exhaust Gas Cleaning System (EGCS) that allows the combustion of HSFO by removing access sulphur from the exhaust gas of a ship. However, these compliance mechanisms present their own Technical and operational challenges. The concern that the specifications of VLSFO are hidden is groundless, as they must comply with ISO 8217. Thus, the problems with VLSFO blends are not their specs but the difficulty attached to their handling and use. Major problems with VLSFO blends are the breakdown of the main engine, poor liner conditions, collapsed piston rings, and consequential scuffing caused by mismanagement of cylinder oil and feed rate, improper maintenance of Piston Rings and Cylinder liner. Some other concerns with VLSFO blends are low shelf life, high sensitivity, admissibility of onboard testing, the readiness of seafarers, and other compliance difficulties. Training seafarers, technological awareness, and constant care can only achieve adequate compliance.