In response to imminent fuel sulphur regulations, due to enter into force in less than 18 months, Alfa Laval explains how it prepares the road to address new challenges. Currently, the company is optimizing and updating its technologies, taking a complete ‘forward-thinking approach’ to fuel line optimization.
More fuels mean more complexity, Serdar Sengun, Global Sales Manager Marine Separation, Alfa Laval said. For many fleets, 2020 will mean going from existing single-fuel systems to multi-fuel operations. If not managed properly, using multiple fuel oils can result in a variety of issues – especially when the fuels are unfamiliar. The problems can range from clogged fuel systems to, in the worst case, engine stoppage.
“As refineries recalibrate for lower sulphur content, we also anticipate a continued increase in the proportion of cat fines in marine fuel oils,” Mr Sengun said.
“Already, we have seen a huge rise in cat fines, which cause major problems if not separated from the fuel before it reaches the engine.” he added.
Meeting the challenges of more varied fuels will affect the fuel line as a whole as follows:
- Centrifugal separators, which are the primary defence against cat fines, will need to perform at different capacities and with new levels of efficiency.
- Fuel conditioning systems will need to handle fuels with more widely differing properties, using embedded automation to avoid handling mistakes and perform safe changeover within the required engine parameters.
- The existing synergies between fuel line equipment and the engine itself will need to be strengthened.
“Matching the separator feed to engine load is critical to achieving the highest efficiency and engine protection, as field tests have clearly shown. After separation, matching the fuel to the maker’s specifications is critical for the engine, its injection systems and the safety of the vessel. All of these processes have to occur smoothly and safely, no matter what fuel is used.” said Mr. Sengun.
