CIMAC guide on bunker fuel stability and compatibility

IBIA would like to bring to your attention the newly published “CIMAC Guideline: Marine fuel handling in connection to stability and compatibility” to further assist you in preparing for IMO 2020, when a wider variability of fuel formulations and characteristics are expected. It has been developed and approved by the members of the ‘Fuels’ working group of CIMAC (International Council of Combustion Engines).

The guidance aims to provide a practical and working understanding of stability and compatibility of marine fuel oils. Fuels which are unstable, or incompatible when mixed, are both associated with sludge formation caused by precipitated asphaltenes. This CIMAC Guide explains how these two specific fuel properties may be best managed in the supply chain and on-board ships to mitigate associated risk.

It compliments and expands on the information given in ISO/PAS 23263:2019 “Considerations for fuel suppliers and users regarding marine fuel quality in view of the implementation of maximum 0.50% Sulphur in 2020”.

IBIA believes this guide from CIMAC, along with the “Joint Industry Guidance on the supply and use of 0.50% – sulphur marine fuel” published in September, provides stakeholders across the marine fuels and shipping industries, from fuel blenders and suppliers to end users, with great tools to manage IMO 2020.

The new CIMAC Guideline is available on the CIMAC website via this link or clicking on the CIMAC logo