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Mass Flowmeter

Metcore: Taking the right approach in using MFM

It is a welcome development that global ports have started implementation of mass flow metering system (MFM system) for bunker fuel measurement. Although there are existing regulations for use of mass flow meters for general custody transfer purposes, they are not well enacted for the bunker fuel application. The critical difference is the approach in system set-up and onsite verification prior to custody transfer measurement, as well as the monitoring and control when the MFM system is in operation.

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Mass flow meter (MFM) vendors today have taken steps to build their measurement system for bunker application; in-line with the encouraging results from the Singapore market which initiated the mandated use of mass flow meter (MFM) for bunker fuel measurement. However, the international marine refuelling sector, with the exception of Singapore, is still encountering bunker buyers not readily accepting the meter quantity as final and binding.

“The bunker buying culture of ‘trust’ will need to be far more convincing for buyers to accept the delivery figure from MFM-equipped bunkering vessels,” opines Darrick Pang, Managing Director of Metcore International Pte Ltd, a leading marine solutions provider with technical expertise in MFM systems for bunker applications based in Singapore.

“MFMs for bunkering are not plug-and-play systems because they require a large investment for the initial set-up and needs to be maintained regularly. Nevertheless, the success of transparency brought by the MFM system - without a doubt - can be seen in Singapore.”

“Till today, the international bunker trade is still encountering measurement comparison between the delivery bunker tanker and the receiving vessel. It is time for the delivery vessel to build trust while reducing unnecessary downtime in handling disputes.”

“The approach to MFM usage is more important than merely mandating its use because having a half-done initial certification will not do justice to the capability of the MFM system and the high costs of investment. It is as good as remaining status quo in using the conventional measurement method, since it defeats the purpose of ensuring trust and transparency of installing the MFM on-board the bunker takers for bunker fuel measurement.”

Enhanced Trust and Impartiality

The Singapore-based MFM system measurement solutions provider told Manifold Times it welcomed the development of more global key ports mandating use of MFMs that are trusted by international bunker buyers and shipowners alike.

It is crucial for interested stakeholders to tap onto the recognised ISO 22192:2021 'Bunkering of marine fuel using the Coriolis mass flow meter (MFM) system’.  Otherwise, the global bunkering sector may run the risk of evaluating the MFM system based on misaligned practices and operating disparate standards at different international ports.

“Existing national or regional legislations may not provide adequate guidelines on system performance testing. Moreover, the effect on metering for each installed system usually differs during the tanker’s delivery operations,” explained Pang.

“The situation calls for a two-pronged approach: firstly, to level-up with ISO 22192 guidelines, specifically the onsite verification requirements, and secondly, to have an independent and third-party conformity assessment body (CAB) to perform on-site verification on the MFM system in its operating conditions, to maintain impartiality.”

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Support of Independent Third-Party Accredited CAB

“The support of an independent third-party accredited conformity assessment body (CAB) to safeguard the impartiality of evaluation and system testing activities at the specific vessel’s own operational level will ensure meter integrity,” believes Pang.

“Having a recognised third party’s independent certification, with reference to recognised and globally accepted standards, with an on-site MFM system verification prior to approval, as well as continual operation monitoring and regular control checks, will go a long way to ensure that the MFM system has the full functionality to provide accurate and trusted bunker measurements as a safeguard against potential disputes.”

Besides having the capability to evaluate the MFM and its associated devices, the CABs would endeavour to have in-depth knowledge of the bunker tankers cargo system set-up and bunkering operations to ensure comprehensive conformity to the relevant guidelines and legislated requirements.

The conformity assessment tests for optimal operational maintenance of the MFM systems for bunkering applications enhance trust and traceability for all stakeholders. This approach also provides a balanced view with representations from the various stakeholders without permitting any one interest to predominate. This will steer the maritime industry towards harmonised conformance framework and digitalisation across global ports.

Digitalisation for Transparency and Traceability

“It is more relevant than ever for bunker measurement practices to be harmonised for transparency and traceability across global ports,” explained Daryl Lim, Quality Manager of Metcore International Pte Ltd.

Lim was among the panel of speakers at ARACON 2023 and discussed with conference delegates from the marine fuel industry about various issues related to the certification of MFM Systems for bunker applications as well as the direction of bunkering to enhance trust and transparency.  He shared the experience of using MFM systems for bunker applications with reference to ISO 22192.

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“Moving forward, harmonising of practices using standards with competent and independent conformity assessment approach would enhance trust, transparency and traceability when using the adequately certified MFM system for measurement of bunker fuel; especially in operations requiring continuous reliance on the latest technology in the measurement of marine fuel,” opined Lim

“Supported by the recognised third party’s independent certification, on-site MFM system verification and regular monitoring of operational controls - all these best practices for digitalisation will serve to strengthen the trust and acceptance of the MFM system’s measurement,” concluded Pang.

Related: TFG Marine: Modernising marine fuel delivery 
Related: Integr8: MFM roll-out in Singapore could serve as a model for Rotterdam, Antwerp-Bruges
Related: TFG Marine: Mandatory MFM move in Antwerp-Bruges and Rotterdam is a ‘step in the right direction’
Related: MFM bunker measurement system to be mandatory in Antwerp-Burges and Rotterdam
Related: Singapore: Industry players weigh in on debunking MFM bunkering flowrate reduction myth
Related: Rotterdam keen to improve its bunkering sector, is hot on the heels of Singapore’s MFM mandatory adoption
Related: IBIA welcomes news of Rotterdam’s plans to mandate MFMs
Related: Metcore International achieves ISO/IEC 17065:2012 accreditation for certification of mass flow metering systems

 

Photo credit: Metcore International
Published: 19 January 2024

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Mass Flowmeter

IBIA supports Port of Ceuta move to implement mandatory MFMs for bunkering ops

While this is a step forward, IBIA also highlights the importance of having the right regulations and procedures in place to make sure the transition to MFMs is smooth and consistent across the industry.

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RESIZED IBIA logo

The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) on Friday (14 February) welcomed the Port of Ceuta’s decision to become the first Mediterranean port to implement the mandatory use of ISO 22192 certified Coriolis Mass Flow Meters (MFMs) for marine fuel supply. 

IBIA said this initiative is a positive step towards modernising the marine fuel supply industry and improving transparency.

“IBIA has long supported the adoption of Mass Flow Meters across global bunkering hubs as they help increase measurement accuracy, reduce discrepancies, and build trust between suppliers and buyers,” it said in a statement. 

 “While this is a step forward, IBIA also highlights the importance of having the right regulations and procedures in place to make sure the transition to MFMs is smooth and consistent across the industry.”

IBIA added clear guidelines and solid processes are key to ensuring the success of such initiatives and maintaining trust in bunkering operations.

“This development is in line with IBIA’s ongoing push to see bunker licensing schemes, ideally incorporating MFMs, adopted in key global bunkering hubs,” it said. 

IBIA said it looks forward to continued collaboration with ports, regulators, and industry partners to drive further improvements in transparency, reliability, and digitalisation in the marine fuel supply chain.

Manifold Times previously reported Port Authority of Ceuta mandating the use of international ISO 22192 certified and calibrated MFMs for marine fuel supply by barge.

Related: Ceuta becomes first Mediterranean port to mandate certified MFMs for STS bunkering

 

Photo credit: International Bunker Industry Association
Published: 17 February, 2025

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Mass Flowmeter

Ceuta becomes first Mediterranean port to mandate certified MFMs for STS bunkering

Port Authority of Ceuta has implemented the mandatory use of international ISO 22192 certified and calibrated Mass Flow Meters for marine fuel supply by barge, effective February 2025.

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Ceuta becomes first Mediterranean port to mandate certified MFMs for STS bunkering

The Port Authority of Ceuta on Wednesday (12 February) said it has become the first Mediterranean port to mandate the use of international ISO 22192 certified and calibrated Mass Flow Meters (MFMs) for marine fuel supply by barge, effective February 2025.

It said the device ensures a much more precise marine fuel measurement, providing greater transparency and efficiency. 

“The MFM allows the collection of the most accurate and extensive real-time data on the amount of product being transferred, reducing the margin of error and improving traceability in supply operations,” the port authority said in a statement. 

“The implementation of this technology will minimise discrepancies and disputes between suppliers and shipowners regarding the amount of fuel received, ensuring more reliable and efficient management of bunkering operations.”

“Furthermore, waiting times will be reduced, and productivity will increase, making the Port of Ceuta more competitive and profitable for all the stakeholders.”

Ceuta becomes first Mediterranean port to mandate certified MFMs for STS bunkering

It added introducing the requirement for all deliveries to use MFMs reinforced Port of Ceuta's commitment to the modernisation and digitalisation of the bunker sector, aligning with the demands of the global market and contributing to the sustainability of maritime transport. 

“This milestone represents a significant progress in our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and operational efficiency," said the Port Authority of Ceuta. 

“By adopting MFM technology, we are reinforcing our position as a leading Mediterranean port and ensuring a high-quality, transparent service for all our clients.”

 

Photo credit: Port Authority of Ceuta
Published: 13 February, 2025

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Bunker Fuel

IBIA: Dutch authorities to enforce ISO 13739 bunker sampling in Rotterdam by 2026

IBIA Secretariat has received information that Netherlands’ Inspectorate for Environment and Transport is planning for the port to strictly enforce rules for fuel oil sampling on board the receiving vessel.

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IBIA: Dutch authorities to enforce ISO bunker sampling standard in Port of Rotterdam

International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) Secretariat on Tuesday (3 February) said it was informed by Port of Rotterdam that the Inspectorate for Environment and Transport in Netherlands is planning for the port to strictly enforce the rules for fuel oil sampling (the MARPOL sample) on board the receiving vessel via drip sampling to conform with ISO 13739.

“If both parties agree on a different sample point (that is other than the receiving vessel’s manifold), then the Inspectorate will have to be informed, and can issue a waiver,” IBIA secretariat stated. 

“Other samples may be taken via the bunker barge sample point.”

All seal (numbers) and counter seals have to be noted on the BDN.

“As this rule is not currently standard practice in ARA, the Dutch Inspectorate are initially expected to be flexible, but are likely to start to enforce this rule during this year and no later than the beginning of 2026,” it added. 

This will coincide with the obligation of  mass flow meter (MFM). 

Manifold Times previously reported that the use of a bunker measurement system for bunker vessels in the ports of Antwerp-Bruges and Rotterdam will be mandatory from 1 January 2026.

Related: MFM bunker measurement system to be mandatory in Antwerp-Bruges and Rotterdam

 

Photo credit: International Bunker Industry Association
Published: 5 February, 2025

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