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Global marine lubricant provider Total Lubmarine has this week introduced Talusia LS 25, a low alkaline lubricant specifically designed for slow-speed two-stroke engines running distillate fuels with 0.1% sulphur content. The move comes as the shipping industry adapts to comply with the 0.1% sulphur cap which enters into effect on 1 January 2015 for Emission Control Areas (ECAs). Talusia LS 25 will be available from late October in major shipping hubs worldwide, Total Lubmarine said.

Announcing the new cylinder lubricant at the marine industry trade fair SMM Hamburg, Total Lubmarine Global Marketing Manager Serge Dal Farra stated: "Talusia LS 25 is an innovative solution for ship operators looking for a reliable lubricant specifically designed to meet the challenging requirements of running engines, including the latest generation of crosshead two stroke engines, on distillate fuel. Talusia LS 25 will protect engines by offering excellent cleanliness thanks to its low-ash chemistry."

Talusia LS 25 is said to have undergone "successful trials" with engine manufacturers MAN Diesel & Turbo and Wärtsilä who have both issued No Objection Letters confirming that the lubricant is suitable for use in their two-stroke engines.

Total Lubmarine already offers a lubricant for low sulphur residual fuels, Talusia LS 40, whilst its single oil concept Talusia Universal is designed to be suitable for residual fuels with sulphur contents ranging between 0.5 and 3.5%. For modern engines affected by cold corrosion, Talusia Universal 100 is claimed to provide "exceptional neutralisation efficiency", thus reducing the risk of severe wear.

"Whilst our latest lubricants will ensure that ship operators can comply with ECA whatever fuel they choose to use, we believe that modern chemistry is the key to a long-term solution for the marine industry and our laboratories are at the forefront of research in this area," said Dal Farra.

He added: "Shipping is a complex business with frequent changes to a vessel’s schedule, its fuels and cargoes. Total Lubmarine’s global port network supports its customers not just through a wide choice of lubricant, but has an expert team that ensures prompt delivery worldwide, engine inspections, on-board and laboratory testing, training and advice."