As the 2020 sulphur cap is closer and closer, a number of ships are now installing scrubbers as a way to comply. In order to help operators in installing such a technology properly on the ships, DNV GL provides some recommendations.
Namely, as from October 2018, about 1,700 scrubbers are operating or on order. To support operators in installing scrubbers, DNV GL provides the following suggestions:
- Thorough financial assessment for scrubbers: The result of the assessment depends on the price differential between compliant fuel and high sulphur fuel oil, as well as the availability of HSFO.
- Thorough technical study for the installation of scrubbers: Items to be considered include: space for the installation, power consumption, impact on stability.
- Scrubber supplier: The supplier should meet quality standards and provides in-service support globally.
- Continuous Emission Monitoring System (CEMS) supplier: A CEMS supplier is crucial to prove that the scrubber is running in compliance.
- Select a docking yard: Dry docking could be considered during a class renewal as a suitable time to install the scrubber.
- Plan the commission test: A commission test with all parties involved is crucial for the successful survey and testing of the scrubber to showcase compliance.
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Speaking about the space and power requirements that scrubbers need onboard a ship, Dr. Martin Koller, Product Manager, Air Pollution Control, ANDRITZ told SAFETY4SEA that operators should make internal work to evaluate if they have every possible space available or the power available.
For this reason, It would be better to make the work together with an experienced scrubber supplier who should know what are the barriers and the problems.
In addition, Nicholas Confuorto, President & CEO, CR Ocean Engineering, argues that scrubbers are the best option for compliance with 2020 regulations. Mr. Confuorto mentions that by 2020 there could probably be about 3,000 – 4,000 scrubbers installed if they continue at the pace they do this year.
That will be the pace I think will continue until 2025 which will change the whole schematic of the shipping industry, in that so many companies using scrubbers will force others to also use scrubbers because of the competition.
