- CMT Warns of Elevated Engine Risks from Low Sulphur Fuels
- Blended Fuels and Cat Fines: Challenges for Marine Operators
- New Test Kits Help Combat Fuel Compatibility and Cat Fines Problems
Approaching its fifth anniversary, the IMO 2020 Sulphur Cap (MARPOL Annex VI) still sends many headaches of fuel compatibility and viscosity issues to marine engine operators with component damage and an elevated level of cat fines. According to Matthias Winkler, the managing director of CM Technologies or CMT, though it is already the state of the art in the aspects of fuel and engine, the problems still continue as such, reports AJOT.
What are cat fines?
Catalytic fines (cat fines) are abrasive aluminium and silicon particles formed during fuel refining. Accumulation of these particles can severely damage engine components such as cylinder liners, fuel injection valves, piston crowns, and rings, potentially rendering engines inoperable. Winkler noted that cat fines levels often exceed ISO8217:2017 specifications, particularly in fuels bunkered in regions like Amsterdam-Rotterdam-Antwerp (ARA).
Low Sulphur Fuel and Viscosity Issues
The problem has been worsened by the transition to low sulphur fuels (LSF) under IMO 2020. Conventional high-viscosity fuels such as IFO 380cst or 180cst kept cat fines suspended and removable through fuel separators. LSF, averaging viscosities of 105cst and sometimes reaching as low as 10cst, allows cat fines to sink into settling tanks, often unnoticed until recirculated during operations, especially in rough seas.
Increased Sediment and Compatibility Concerns
Fuel blending has brought on new problems such as higher sediment levels and incompatibility. Blending aromatic and paraffinic fuels can lower fuel stability, clog filters and separators, and increase the possibility of propulsion system failures. David Fuhlbrügge, CMT’s Operations Manager, reported that asphaltene buildup from blending is another growing problem, which causes unpredictable sediment formation and blockages of the fuel system.
Mitigation Strategies
To address these problems, some manufacturers have resorted to additives to enhance TSP, but sediment tests are frequently above the maximum permissible cat fines content of 0.10%. Traditionally, frequent use of separators was the primary method for eliminating cat fines. However, with LSF, the content of cat fines prior to separators or engine entry is usually unknown.
CMT’s Innovations for Fuel Management
Recognizing that there is a need for better monitoring, CMT has developed tools to help overcome these challenges. Their Electronic Compatibility Tester helps detect fuel incompatibility early, preventing costly engine damage. Moreover, the newly introduced CMT Cat Fines II Test Kit enables crews to measure cat fines content quickly during and after bunkering and before fuel injection.
Protecting Engines from LSF Risks
Winkler emphasized the importance of proactive measures: “Engines running on low sulphur fuels are at an elevated risk of damage, but we can now measure cat fines and verify the quality, grade, and compatibility of the fuel delivered, detecting potential fuel and engine problems before they happen.”
By adopting regular monitoring and advanced testing tools, ship operators can better safeguard their engines and maintain operational efficiency in the post-IMO 2020 era.
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Source: AJOT
