Neptune Update - Bunker information tab
In the global maritime industry, bunker fuel quality plays a critical role in ensuring environmental compliance, safety and operational efficiency of vessels.
Substandard bunker can cause technical issues, including significant engine damage, or statutory non-compliance both resulting in operational disruptions. Quality of marine bunker supplied in ports worldwide may differ significantly, therefore consistent monitoring of marine fuel quality and reliable data ensures not only the safety and efficiency of maritime operations but also supports broader efforts toward sustainability and regulatory compliance in the shipping industry.
Check the bunker info tab on Neptune for updates reflecting marine bunker fuel quality situation over last six months of 2024 worldwide.
For detailed and more specific information, please contact Loss Prevention Department.
HFO (High Sulphur Fuel Oil):
The main off-specification issues were linked to viscosity, followed by density and water content. Ports such as Rotterdam and Fujairah showed significantly elevated off-spec percentages for viscosity and water content.
VLSFO (Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil):
Sulphur non-compliance was a notable issue, particularly in Antwerp and Rotterdam, in last six months, while usual problems with total sediment potential (TSP) and pour point (PP) remained largely within the specification. Watch out for viscosity when bunkering in Algeciras and for cat fines and sulphur content in New York.
ULSFO (Ultra-Low Sulphur Fuel Oil):
The primary off-spec concerns were related to PP in European ports, particularly in Scandinavia. Sulphur non-compliance and TSP had been a persistent problem in New York and Saint-Petersburg. Off-spec figures highlight challenges in maintaining stable fuel properties in ULSFO grades across varying supply locations.
MGO (Marine Gas Oil):
Pour point (PP) off-spec was the dominant issue in Singapore and Rotterdam, reaching 17.8% in Dutch waters. On a positive note, sulphur content had been consistently on specification.
In an increasingly regulated maritime industry, monitoring fuel quality is no longer optional but essential. Using the latest ISO 8217 standard mitigates risks of equipment failures and operational downtime, and statutory compliance.