FOBAS Alert: High Sediment Fuels from ARA Region
by FOBAS
FOBAS has tested several samples from
ARA (Antwerp, Rotterdam, Amsterdam), which had tested Total Sediment Potential (TSP) results exceeding the ISO8217 specification limit of 0.10% m/m. The samples were all VSLFO fuels and TSP results ranged up to 0.35% m/m.
Fuels with high sediments can result in excessive sludge deposition in tanks and throughout the handling and treatment/fuel injection systems. Furthermore, in certain cases the attempted use of such fuels may result in highly compromised combustion leading to engine and turbocharger damage.
In view of the above, if your ships are planning to bunker in these ports, we recommend that suppliers are advised of your concerns regarding the stability of the fuel in the area, and that they provide you with additional reassurance that they will adhere to the ISO 8217 requirements for the grade ordered.