Emission Control Area (ECA) fuel switchovers simplified with ExxonMobil Premium HDME 50™

Background

A major shipping company with more than 400 vessels was operating 170 routes, many of which passed through Emission Control Areas (ECAs). The operator was seeking a fuel that would enable its vessels to comply with the 0.10 per cent ECA sulphur cap while helping to enhance the safety and efficiency of the switchover process. Following consultations, ExxonMobil engineers recommended that the company switch some of its vessels from Marine Gas Oil (MGO) to ExxonMobil Premium HDME 50™ marine fuel. ExxonMobil Premium HDME 50 fuel offers the performance benefits associated with both MGO and Heavy Fuel Oils (HFO). It provides the low sulphur content associated with MGO, while also offering the higher flash point and lower volatility properties typically found in HFO.

Experience

Following ExxonMobil’s recommendation, 33 of the operator’s vessels were bunkered with ExxonMobil Premium HDME 50 fuel. Throughout this process, ExxonMobil worked collaboratively with the company’s technical department to provide a service tailored to their specific needs. ExxonMobil engineers, in close collaboration with the vessel operator’s personnel, detailed the fuel’s specification, onboard handling best practices and explained the switchover procedures.

The operator’s crews have reported that the high viscosity of ExxonMobil Premium HDME 50 fuel makes its storage and handling similar to HFO, which simplifies the fuel-switching process. This reduces the risk of thermal shock during fuel switchover, which can lead to engine and boiler damage. As a result, the overall switchover process is now much easier and safer, when entering and leaving ECAs.

Based on the experience of a single customer. Actual results can vary depending upon the type of equipment used and its maintenance, operating conditions and environment, and any prior lubricant used.