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Leading fuel testing agency Lintec Testing Services has stressed the importance of testing marine fuels for the presence of chemical contaminants, ahead of the introduction of specific amendments to revised ISO specifications on July 1, 2010.

Michael Green, Technical Manager of Lintec, said, “Chemical screening is a vital tool in the analysis of marine fuels. In order to seek some clarity on the finer details of chemical contamination, focus falls firmly on the ISO 8217 standard. But despite the definitive wording of the standard, significant levels of chemicals such as Styrene, DCPD, FAME and Chlorinated Solvents are seen more and more frequently in marine fuels. Such contaminants have been identified as particularly problematic when introduced into marine fuel oil and have been responsible for some of the more well-documented incidents of engine damage and failure.

“Even though there are still those who claim that these compounds pose no risk to the vessel or to the welfare of the crew, there have been several cases where the presence of these chemicals has led to severe operational problems and to loss of time and accumulation of costs.

“One recent case in particular highlights the significance of Styrene and DCPD (Dicyclopentadiene) contamination within marine fuel. The fuel in question went through a regular chemical screening programme during which the presence of both Styrene and DCPD was noted. Once the analysis was confirmed and the levels of contamination noted, the fuel buyer was advised and instructions were issued that the fuel should be used with caution, and any operational difficulties noted. Within seven days, information from the vessel confirmed that significant operational difficulties had been encountered and that severe filter blocking was one of the key manifestations encountered.”

On July 1, 2010, specific amendments will be introduced to Section 5 of the revised FDIS (Final Draft International Standard) ISO 8217 specification in an attempt to reduce chemical contamination in marine fuels.

Michael Green said, “Additional clauses such as, ‘Fuels shall be free from any material that renders the fuel unacceptable for use in marine applications’ have strengthened the position of buyers as far as overall fuel quality is concerned. And even though specific chemicals have not been named as contaminants, and specific limits have not been imposed for the presence of such chemicals, the new standard should have a significant effect on improving fuel quality, and underline the argument for screening marine fuels for contaminants.”