Image: ExxonMobil

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ExxonMobil is holding a series of 'Journey to 2020' symposiums around the world to help marine operators optimise vessel performance in readiness for the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) 0.50 percent global cap on fuel sulphur content in 2020.

The events are designed to provide essential insights and help on fuels options and choosing appropriate cylinder oils, for safe and efficient vessel operation.

The first symposium is scheduled to be held at the Equinox Complex in Singapore, on October 26, followed by events in Hong Kong, Taipei, Athens, Tokyo, Imabari, Copenhagen and Hamburg, with the series continuing into the first quarter of 2019.

While ExxonMobil anticipates that the vast majority of the industry will initially choose low-sulphur fuels, the bunker supplier also acknowledges that there is no single route to compliance.

The 'Journey to 2020' symposiums will enable operators to discuss the most practical compliance choices with ExxonMobil's team of experts.

ExxonMobil notes that the events will also provide operators with the opportunity to explore the cylinder oil options that best fit their fuel choices.

"For the majority of vessels bunkering a 0.50 percent sulphur fuel, a 40 BN cylinder oil will be the best choice. Vessels fitted with scrubbers will continue to burn HFO and will solely use a high BN alternative," ExxonMobil observed.

ExxonMobil notes that options will be available for low-sulphur distillates, such as marine gas oil (MGO); new low-sulphur fuels; premium Emission Control Area (ECA) fuels; the continued use of high-sulphur fuel oil (HSFO) in conjunction with a scrubber; and liquefied natural gas (LNG).

"The 2020 sulphur cap will fundamentally change how the marine industry operates," said Iain White, Global Field Engineering Manager, ExxonMobil Aviation and Marine Lubricants. "Our symposiums will share essential information and guidance to help the marine industry safely and effectively comply with the changing emissions regulations. Backed by our extensive marine industry knowledge and expertise, operators should expect insights, advice and the opportunity for in-depth discussion with our teams to help them make the most informed choices possible ahead of 2020."

To find out more about the 'Journey to 2020' symposiums and to register for a place, please contact your ExxonMobil representative.