Page 11 - Thome Group News Issue 45

all possible actions for preparation before change over, including minute detailslike cleaning of filters, calculation of time required, draining of water from MGO tanks etc. Further, all operational steps that may be involved during actual process, and monitoring of conditions after switchingto LSMGO, are covered. Vessels need to input relevant ship specific information and pictures, to arrive at a comprehensive procedure that can prevent failures during change over.Performance Test GuidelinesTo ensure that the main engine, auxiliary engines, boilers and fuel systems are well tested regularly and confirmed to be in the desired condition for safe and reliable operation on LSMGO, performance test guidelinesto vessels were reviewed. Since testing on HFO would not expose the kind of defects that are likely to appear when the engine is run on LSMGO, it was considered vital that periodic testing,deterioration, or would be needed during the more frequent maintenance that may be required following continuous LSMGO usage. The vessels have been advised to review the stock of recommended spares, in order that these can be procured with the consent of owners.Long Term Features for Fuel Oil Line SystemsFour important long term features for fuel oil line systems (Bunkering/ Transfer / Service lines) have been identified. For example, coolers inthe FO Service line and dedicated bunkering line for distillate fuels. Based on feedback from vessels, regarding the existence (or non- existence) of these on board, these will be considered for installation under upgrading / dry-docking accounts with consent from owners, as these either involve capital expense, or cannot be implemented in the course of normal service, due to operational constraints.Fuel Oil Testing ProceduresRequirements under our fueloil testing procedures have been reviewed. It is recommended that tests for ‘Asphaltenes’ and ‘Stability’ be carried out as a standard forHFO bunker samples, so that thefuel is well assessed in advance for properties that are likely to cause a problem, particularly when the system is changed over form HFO to LSMGO or ULSFO. Besides, in view of the high sensitivity (low tolerance) of ULSFO to mixing, it is recommended that a compatibility test with existing fuel is carried out, in case the hybrid fuelis bunkered.As more experience is gained through using of low sulphurfuels, we’ll continue to review the requirements, including any need for revising maintenance intervals (in PMS) for fuel system components, and other changes that may be neededto procedures; and will keep our principals and all stakeholders duly advised.REGULATORY UPDATEPre-ECA Zone ChecksIt was realised that vessels that have not been trading in areas that presently require SOx emission control, are more likely to encounter problems when they start using low sulphur distillate fuel for the first time, with the change of trading area. A list of checks termed ‘Pre-ECA Zone checks’ was disseminated to the vessels for preparation on receiving orders to move to an ECA, to ensure that all relevant systems (chillers; heating isolation; LSMGO bunkering, storage and handling systems) are checked, equipment (engines & boilers) tested and requirements for lubricity additives, low TBN CLO and spares identified, for timely measures.with equipment & systems actually running on LSMGO at maximum safe load, is made part of the standard procedure, in order that any remedial measures required are identified and implemented proactively.Minimum Recommended SparesFurther, acknowledging the sensitivity of operations, when using LSMGO fuel with low viscosity and low lubricity, and the fact that an inability to maintain favourable conditions, while running on LSMGO, can adversely affect certain components (of MEs, AEs, boilers and pumps),a need was identified to maintain minimum recommended spares for parts that are susceptible toDECEMBER 2016 | ISSUE 47 | 11