Managing Catfines in Marine Fuels

The shipping industry operates within a highly complex global context, balancing commercial demands with an evolving maritime regulatory framework. The operational reliability of vessels significantly influences not only the fulfilment of commercial commitments but also the safety of human life and environmental protection.

While there are several factors which can adversely affect the operational reliability of ships, the presence of catfines in marine residual fuels has been a longstanding concern. Catfines have been responsible for machinery damage, leading to reduced propulsion capability and, in certain instances, a complete loss of propulsion.

This risk alert highlights the operational measures that vessels can implement to minimise catfines in the fuel, while also emphasising the critical role of the fuel conditioning system and crew diligence in effectively managing fuels containing elevated catfines.

Read the full Risk Alert now

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]