200970 Changing fuel

Changing fuel
MARS Report 200970

Official report: condensed from USCG Marine Safety Alert 03-09

Due to tighter emission norms in many coastal waters, ships are increasingly switching from fuel oil to low sulphur fuels. When changing fuel types, some ships have experienced propulsion losses linked to procedural errors or fuel oil incompatibility. In order to prevent casualties arising from such sudden engine stoppages, it is recommended that owners and operators:

Consult engine and boiler manufacturers for fuel switching guidance;
Consult fuel suppliers for proper fuel selection;
Exercise tight control over the quality of the fuel oils received;
Consult manufacturers to determine if system modifications or additional safeguards are necessary for intended fuels;
Develop detailed fuel switching procedures;
Establish a fuel system inspection and maintenance schedule;
Ensure system pressure and temperature alarms, flow indicators, filter differential pressure transmitters etc are all operational;
Ensure system purifiers, filters and strainers are maintained;
Ensure system seals, gaskets, flanges, fittings, brackets and supports are maintained;
Ensure a detailed system diagram is available;
Conduct initial and periodic crew training;
Complete fuel switching well offshore prior to entering restricted waters or traffic lanes.