Bunker Quality Issues in Far Eastern Ports

Several vessels that recently bunkered HFO in some Far Eastern ports have reportedly identified elevated levels of chemical compounds, including phenolic compounds, alkylresorcinols and reactive hydrocarbons. 

Phenolic compounds are typically associated with coal tar and shale-derived fuels, while alkylresorcinols may indicate the presence of non-petroleum cutter stocks, and reactive hydrocarbons can originate from various sources. As this source information is not generally available to bunker buyers, other indicators should be used to support due diligence in bunker procurement. 

Detection and quantification of these compounds do not form a part of the standard ISO 8217 fuel lab analysis and require additional Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) tests. Fuels containing elevated levels of one or more of these compounds are increasingly associated with operational issues. 

Recommendations:

• Fuel Procurement – Consider reported issues linked to specific bunker ports and suppliers when making procurement decisions. 
• Fuel Testing – Supplement standard ISO 8217 fuel analysis with Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) testing. 
• Fuel Conditioning – Fuel conditioning equipment should be maintained in optimal working condition and operated in line with industry best practices. 
• Performance Monitoring – Close monitoring of machinery parameters can provide early warning of developing operational issues. 
• Documentation – Maintain proper records of bunker receipt, storage, transfer and consumption as documented evidence. 

The Club’s Risk Alert Marine Bunker Value Chain: Avoiding Disputes and Claims outlines best practices across the Marine Bunker Value Chain, aimed at preventing operational issues and disputes. 

In the event of suspected bunker contamination or related issues, Members should consult their local agents, legal advisers or the Club’s correspondents for guidance on local requirements and appropriate protective measures.

Supportive Information

For further information on this or other Loss Prevention topics please contact the Loss Prevention Department, Steamship Insurance Management Services Ltd. Tel: +44 20 7247 5490 Email: [email protected]