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Bunker Fuel

FOBAS: Chemical contamination and operational problems in Istanbul

FOBAS has tested fuel samples from vessels, which bunkered in Istanbul, that have reported problems with fuel injection equipment seemingly caused by a substance sticking and seizing the jerk type fuel pumps.

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RESIZED Hans Reniers on Unsplash

Lloyd’s Register Fuel Oil Bunkering Analysis and Advisory Service (FOBAS) on Tuesday (29 April) released a bulletin regarding testing of fuel samples from different vessels, which bunkered in Istanbul, that have reported problems with fuel injection equipment seemingly caused by a substance sticking and seizing the jerk type fuel pumps:

In recent days, FOBAS has tested fuel samples from different vessels that have reported problems with fuel injection equipment seemingly caused by a substance sticking and seizing the jerk type fuel pumps. These vessels bunkered fuel in March and April this year from Istanbul.

These fuels have been further investigated with extended chemical analysis showing a number of chemical species present with some at very high levels.

Various chemicals were found including 4-Cumyl Phenol and Cyclohexane Diol at high levels. Resin acids and Acrylates were also identified along with unusually high levels of DCPD (Dicyclopentadiene), Indene and trace levels of Tetrachloroethylene.

Not all these chemicals may be contributing to the problems, but they are in a pattern seen in some problem fuels from Antwerp and Rotterdam in 2024 and a number of problem fuels from Houston in 2023 and 2018. Some of these chemicals can polymerise and are used in the manufacture of resins and plastics and may be reacting together under the heat and pressure of the fuel injection system.

These fuels were found to be on-spec based on standard routine analysis. However, there are some particular parameters of note. Viscosity was low at around 40cSt, acid numbers were high (1.50 – 2.50mgKOH/g) and all fuels were VLSFO with sulphur content <0.50%. This low viscosity and high acid number pattern aligns with other contaminated fuels seen in Houston in 2023).

We would suggest that if you have bunkered in the last 2-3 months in Istanbul to be particularly cautious with the use of the fuel. In particular if the fuel has a low viscosity, around 50cSt or lower, high acid number >1.00mgKOH/g or high sediments, we would suggest to discuss further testing options as this problematic fuel may not be isolated to only two vessels.

It should also be noted and suppliers reminded that any fuel purchased against the ISO8217 standard must meet the general requirements of clause 5 as well as limits in the characteristics tables. Clause 5 includes the statement that the fuel should be a “homogeneous blend of hydrocarbons derived from petroleum refining” and be free from any substance or chemical waste that “jeopardizes the safety of the ship or adversely affects the performance of the machinery”.

 

Photo credit: Hans Reniers on Unsplash
Published: 30 April, 2025

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Events

Singapore bunkering community supports Living Hope Evangelism’s 7th anniversary outreach for residents in need

Cathay Marine Fuel Oil Trading, Seven Seas Oil Trading, Hai Yin Marine amongst firms reaching more than 5,000 residents through local community outreach programme.

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Singapore bunkering community supports Living Hope Evangelism’s 7th anniversary outreach for residents in need

Singapore community outreach programme Legacy of Love Hearts (LHE) has reached out to more than 5,000 residents through a range of community initiatives, bringing practical assistance, companionship and encouragement to elderly residents, low-income families and others facing difficult circumstances.

LHE on Saturday (22 August) marked its 7th Anniversary with a meaningful community outreach dinner at Jubilee Restaurant, bringing together hundreds of elderly residents and families in need for an evening of fellowship, care and encouragement.

More than just an anniversary celebration, the gathering reflected LHE’s continuing commitment to building a caring and inclusive community where people who may be vulnerable or facing difficult circumstances know that they are not forgotten.

Guests were treated to a complimentary dinner, with each guest receiving specially prepared souvenirs and gift vouchers as a gesture of love, care and appreciation.

The event was made possible through the collective efforts of LHE’s team and volunteers, together with the generous support of corporate partners and donors from Singapore’s bunkering, maritime and other sectors.

It was graced by Mr Eric Chua, Senior Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Law & Ministry of Social and Family Development, Adviser to Queenstown Grassroots Organisations, who commended LHE, its volunteers and generous donors for their continued efforts to bring hope, practical support and encouragement to elderly residents and families in need.

Speaking on behalf of LHE, Senior Pastor Richard Tay and Pastor Alex Ow Yong, BBM, said:

“For many elderly residents, the challenges they face go beyond financial difficulties. As they grow older and are no longer able to work, some also experience loneliness and social isolation.

“Through our outreach, we want them to know that they are remembered, valued, and loved. Sometimes, a meal, a gift, or simply having someone spend time with them can make a meaningful difference.

“Our 7th Anniversary is therefore not simply a celebration of how far we have come. It is also a reminder of the responsibility we have to continue serving our community and reaching out to those who may need a helping hand.

“We are deeply grateful to our corporate donors, volunteers, partners, and supporters whose generosity has made these initiatives possible. Their commitment demonstrates what can happen when the community comes together with compassion and a willingness to serve.”

Corporate Donors and Supporters

LHE extends its sincere appreciation to the following corporate donors and supporters for their generous contribution and commitment to community outreach:

  • Cathay Marine Fuel Oil Trading Pte. Ltd.
  • Seven Seas Oil Trading Pte. Ltd.
  • Hai Yin Marine Pte. Ltd.
  • Mr Christopher Ng – Rigel Technology (S) Pte. Ltd.
  • Dr Thian, PBM
  • Mr Pak Charles Antonny Melati

LHE also expresses its heartfelt appreciation to its dedicated volunteers, community partners and supporters who have contributed their time, resources and energy to making a difference in the lives of others.

Continuing the Journey

As LHE enters its eighth year, it remains committed to strengthening its community outreach and developing meaningful partnerships with individuals, businesses and organisations that share the same desire to care for others.

The organisation believes that building a caring society is not the responsibility of one group alone. It is a collective effort — bringing together volunteers, businesses, community organisations and individuals who are willing to give their time, resources and hearts.

Through continued collective action, compassion and a willingness to serve, LHE hopes to build a more caring, compassionate and inclusive Singapore — where no one is forgotten and everyone is valued.

Photo credit: Legacy of Love Hearts
Published: 24 August 2026

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Winding up

Singapore: Notices of intended dividend issued for Ocean Bunkering Services, Hin Leong Marine

Liquidators have issued notices to intended dividends of OBS, the marine fuels business arm of troubled Hin Leong Trading, and Hin Leong Marine International to their creditors on Government Gazette.

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RESIZED Ocean Bunkering Services

A notice of intended dividend for Ocean Bunkering Services Pte Ltd (OBS), the marine fuels business arm of troubled Hin Leong Trading, and Hin Leong Marine International Pte Ltd was published on the Government Gazette on Friday (21 August). 

The following are the details of the notice of Ocean Bunkering Services:

Name of Company : Ocean Bunkering Services (Pte) Ltd (In Creditors’ Voluntary Liquidation)
Unique Entity No. /Registration No.: 197800010N
Address of Registered Office : 600 North Bridge Road, #23-01 Parkview Square, Singapore 188778
Last Day for Receiving Proofs : 4 September 2026
Names of Liquidators : Leow Quek Shiong, Gary Loh Weng Fatt
Address of Liquidators : c/o BDO Advisory Pte Ltd, 600 North Bridge Road, #23-01 Parkview Square, Singapore 188778.

Details of the notice of intended dividend for Hin Leong Marine International are as follows:

Name of Company : Hin Leong Marine International (Pte.) Ltd. (In Liquidation)
Unique Entity No. /Registration No.: 197501519K
Address of Registered Office : 600 North Bridge Road, #23-01 Parkview Square, Singapore 188778
Court : High Court of the Republic of Singapore
Number of Matter : HC/CWU 202/2020
Last Day for Receiving Proofs : 4 September 2026
Names of Liquidators : Leow Quek Shiong, Gary Loh Weng Fatt
Address of Liquidators : c/o BDO Advisory Pte Ltd, 600 North Bridge Road, #23-01 Parkview Square, Singapore 188778

In 2020, Manifold Times reported the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) announcing the suspension of OBS’ bunkering licences

“Given that OBS has stopped its bunkering operations since April this year and has not been able to fulfil its licensing commitment to date, MPA has suspended their bunkering licences until further notice,” MPA was quoted as saying at the time. 

Later that year, the company’s directors declared “the company cannot by reason of its liabilities continue its business. 

Related: Singapore: Annual meeting of members and creditors set for Ocean Bunkering Services
Related: MPA: Ocean Bunkering Services licenses suspended ‘until further notice’ and not revoked, it clarifies
Related: PwC publishes ‘investment opportunity’ for Singapore independent bunker fuel supplier
Related: Singapore: Ocean Bunkering Services bunker claims against ASL Marine & Offshore heads to arbitration
Related: Singapore: Ocean Bunkering Services license suspended until further notice
Related: Singapore: Ocean Bunkering Services to discontinue marine fuel deliveries
Related: Lim family aims to wind up Hin Leong Trading subsidiary, Hin Leong Marine

 

Photo credit: steve pb from Pixabay
Published: 24 August, 2026

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Ammonia

Mitsui E&S commercialises ammonia dual-fuel engines and fuel supply systems

Company says it has established a supply framework for marine propulsion systems aimed at the practical implementation of ammonia-fuelled vessels.

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Mitsui E&S commercialises ammonia dual-fuel engines and fuel supply systems

Mitsui E&S on Thursday (20 August) said it has completed the commercialisation of large ammonia dual-fuel marine engines and ammonia fuel supply systems (AFSS).

As the only company in Japan manufacturing both ammonia dual fuel engines and AFSS, the company said it has established a supply framework for marine propulsion systems aimed at the practical implementation of ammonia-fuelled vessels.

“While ammonia holds promise as a next-generation fuel that emits no carbon dioxide during combustion, it is difficult to ignite and poses risks related to toxicity and corrosiveness; therefore, ensuring safety, reliability, and environmental performance is crucial for its practical implementation in society,” it said. 

In February, Mitsui E&S conducted land-based tests involving the integrated operation of the Ammonia dual fuel engine MITSUI-Everllence B&W 7S60ME-C10.5-LGIA-HPSCR and the AFSS, witnessed by ClassNK (Nippon Kaiji Kyokai), and verified their performance. 

Following the completion of the tests and the subsequent review, Mitsui E&S confirmed the completion of onshore testing in accordance with classification society rules and verified compliance with International Maritime Organization (IMO) NOx regulations through NOx certification. 

“Consequently, we have finalised the commercialisation of the ammonia dual fuel engines and the AFSS and are now able to supply it for actual vessels,” it added. 

Mitsui E&S said it has already decided to expand its land-based testing facilities for AFSS compatible with both Everllence and WinGD licensed engines. 

“In conjunction with this, we will establish a mass-production system for both the engines and the AFSS to meet the anticipated rise in demand,” it said. 

Mitsui E&S added the company is expanding its engine lineup to accommodate a diverse range of next-generation marine fuels, including ammonia, by offering ammonia-fuelled engines and AFSS as an integrated package.

 

Photo credit: Mitsui E&S
Published: 24 August, 2026

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