Gianluca Marucci, Castrol Global Marine and Energy Technical Services Director, shared an article with Singapore-based bunkering publication Manifold Times to remind the shipping industry that proper lubricants must not forgotten as alternative bunker fuels become the main area of focus in maritime decarbonisation: 

As the maritime industry looks to decarbonise its operations, alternative fuels have become the focus. Yet, there is a risk of overlooking one aspect that will be important to the utilisation of alternative fuels: the lubricant. Without the proper lubricant, alternative fuels may only be a partial component in efficient and safe vessel operations. And, if we want to ensure a safe, efficient, and lower-carbon shipping industry, we need to consider starting with the right lubricant.

The importance of lubricants in maritime decarbonisation

When things go wrong in an engine, they can go very wrong. From issues with critical machinery to overheating, the list of reasons for engine failures is long. One crucial aspect to consider for detecting issues with engine health is the lubricant used in the engine. Any flaw in the lubrication can be fatal. In fact, lubrication failure has consistently been the number one cause of engine failure for many years, and it is an expensive thing to get wrong, with the average claim cost for a lubrication failure being in the region of $560,000.  

In the past, the performance of a cylinder oil was largely based on its base number (BN). Now, as the industry explores different fuel types with new attributes and qualities required by engine fluids, choosing the right lubricant has become considerably more difficult. The wrong lubricant with the wrong fuel could cause significant engine damage that could result in downtime, loss of earnings, repair costs as well as risking the lives of seafarers. 

Therefore, the introduction of alternative fuels means that lubricant suppliers and OEMs must work together to ensure they have the right formulation to avoid any potential disruption to engine health. An example of this is Castrol’s close collaboration with MAN Energy Solutions (MAN ES) on our Cyltech 40 XDC cylinder oil, which can be used for ships operating on LNG and methanol, as well as conventional fuels. 

With changing regulations, engines becoming more complex, and alternative fuels becoming a reality, marine lubricants will play an important role in the shipping industry’s decarbonisation journey.  Shipowners and operators will need to leverage the most out of their lubricant to overcome the complexities with the utilisation of alternative fuels to ensure crew safety, engine health, and vessel emissions.

Monitoring matters

As the marine industry continues to evolve, monitoring of lubricant performance will only grow in importance. 

On an ongoing basis, it is crucial that operators use tools such as used-oil analysis data, test kits and expert condition monitoring advice to look out for any issues. With deep knowledge of lubricant and equipment interaction necessary, shipowners need collaborations to keep their operations in sync with the latest OEM recommendations and environmental legislation.

Meanwhile, the substantial human expertise and know-how to assess and underpin these activities will continue to be key. The most efficient and effective solution to an engine issue is to speak to an expert who can interpret the data provided, wherever they are in the world. At the end of the day, marine engines are valuable, yet vulnerable assets and the expertise and experience of the Castrol team can be invaluable in supporting reliable and safe operations.

Condition monitoring technology has evolved significantly to incorporate digital solutions to support human intelligence. Meanwhile, real time smart monitor analysis, can identify issues early, helping owners and operators to make informed decisions. With easy access to the necessary information for an accurate real-time picture of the system's state, lubricant suppliers can make use of digital tools and human expertise, to advise operators in advance when issues arise. The operators may then be able to take preventive action before any major  damage occurs.

Waiting is not an option

As the marine industry continues to evolve, it is necessary for lubricant providers to continue to step up and offer end-to-end solutions. Cutting-edge technology, combined with industry expertise and real-world experience, will enable lubricant suppliers to support the marine industry much more effectively.

Photo credit: Castrol Marine
Published: 25 March 2024