Checking And Retrieving Bunker Fuel For Large Commercial Vessels

| Wednesday, July 11, 2012
By Yearden J. Lovwer


Large liners and commercial barges run on an unconventional type of bunker fuel to other, smaller marine vehicles. This industrial fuel is a heavy oil, which is cheaper to produce and is subject to much less quality control. Because of this, it is important that people using this kind of product monitor it closely for certain elements, to protect the engine and also adhere to strict legislation. Because of the way the fuel is sold, buyers also need to be able to check the thickness of the fuel they are buying.

Getting fuel from a supplier and through to a boat's engine is not as straightforward as that of a car. Deliveries have to be configured in advance and can be time consuming when working out the price. Contaminants can change the grade and mean that shipping companies are paying more for their fuel than is necessary. Handling the bunker fuel is a careful and heavy job, and loading it creates even more issues. With all this preparation, it helps to have the right resources to carry it out successfully.

It is not always possible to take out all traces of oil from a ship's engine before topping it up with another load. Being able to easily examine the bunker fuel samples to see if they will mix well is an advantage of having a testing lab. Being able to accurately test and confirm blends makes it easier to work out the stability of these deliveries, and avoid costly mishaps and even engine failure through incorrect use.

There are a range of tests that are recommended to be run on bunker fuels. Limited people involved in the sale know much more than the viscosity of the oil, as this is needed information when agreeing on a price. With specialist tools this is much simpler and quicker than through alternative methods, and can protect both parties from unwanted incidents. Tests should also be logged accurately with witnesses on paper, for added security.

Fueling large tankers is in no way the same as the act of doing so on smaller, personal boats, which is why sales need to be meticulously planned. Gathering samples and testing the quality of the fuel can be made easier with the use of lab kits, but having the right knowledge of the process can also help. Understanding this is the initial step to making a worthwhile sale. Anyone in the industry should know why this kind of precision and caution is necessary.




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