LR Statutory Alert
Lloyd’s Register has issued Statutory alert refering to fuel change over when entering and exiting emission control areas. From 1 January, 2015, the maximum sulphur content of fuel oil used within the MARPOL Annex VI Emission Control Areas (ECAs) will be 0.10%, unless using an approved alternative means for controlling sulphur emissions.
In most cases, the fuel used will be low-sulphur distillate oil (LSDO). Many ships operating both inside and outside ECAs will change-over between LSDO and residual fuel oil (RFO) when entering and exiting ECAs.
Lloyd’s Register Rule requirements
The Lloyd’s Register (LR) Rule requirements for fuel oil systems are contained within Pt.5 Ch.14 sections 2, 3 and 4; these contain design requirements for systems which are to operate on either LDSO or RFO grades, or both. LR also offers the optional descriptive note, DIST, for shipowners and operators applying industry best practice to the use of LSDO. The ShipRight Procedure for Assigning DIST Descriptive Note contains further guidance on measures to be considered by owners and operators.
In cases where existing fuel systems, engines or other equipment on LR classed ships are not suitable for operation on LSDO in addition to RFO, or where manufacturers have recommended equipment modifications, any proposed modifications must be submitted to LR for approval. If you are uncertain about whether equipment on board your ships requires approval, please contact your local LR office for advice.
Main points to consider when carrying out fuel change-over
Alternating satisfactorily between LSDO and RFO depends on owners and operators applying established change-over procedures and giving attention to maintenance and operating requirements. Some of the main points to consider are as follows:
Change-over procedures |
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Maintenance |
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Operation |
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Source: Lloyds Register