FOBAS: Off-spec density found in high and low sulphur residual marine fuels in ARA

Lloyd’s Register Fuel Oil Bunkering Analysis and Advisory Service (FOBAS) on Monday (7 April) released a bulletin regarding its testing of several samples from ARA (Antwerp, Rotterdam and Amsterdam) with density results exceeding the ISO8217 specification limit of 991.0 kg/m3for an RMG380 grade fuel:

In recent days, FOBAS has tested several samples from ARA (Antwerp, Rotterdam and Amsterdam) with density results exceeding the ISO8217 specification limit of 991.0 kg/m3for an RMG380 grade fuel. The off-spec samples were both high and low sulphur residual fuels with density results ranging from 992.2 to 995.9kg/m3.

Fuels with high density in the ranges seen can most likely still be used however certain precautions would need to be made. The fuel density is particularly important in relation to the operation of onboard purifiers, and although many purifiers are designed to allow use on high density fuels, up to the 1010.0 kg/m3 of an RMK grade, this is still something that would need to be confirmed and any adjustments made as necessary.

From a commercial point of view, the higher Density may represent an over loading, which while not initially as much of a concern as a short loading due to low density is still concern due to the lack of confidence therefore in the bunker quantity measurements.

As ever, attention should be given to the collection of representative bunker samples during any bunkering.

It should be ensured that all parties have witnessed the sampling process and have signed witness forms accordingly, and that the supporting documentation includes records of all the samples considered representative of the fuel as loaded.

Photo credit: Hans Reniers on Unsplash
Published: 8 April, 2025