Advanced Tech Solutions
Complete Solution for Industrial and Marine Services
How are you keeping up with the IMO’s (International Maritime Organization) Global Sulphur Cap of 0.5% fuel emissions? A fuel changeover is mandatory, right? We know that fuel switches are tedious & cumbersome. Also, there are many aspects to consider before a fuel switch. In this blog will know about why regular tank cleaning services is important? and what is the plan for fuel changeover? also different option for a fuel switch. What is the SIP Plan for fuel changeover?The IMO has devised a SIP (Ship Implementation Plan) that involves planning safe and effective fuel changeover. Some important aspects to consider are:
Why tank cleaning is important before fuel changeover?HSFOs have been used predominantly in the maritime industry as they are easily available at lower costs. HSFOs based on residual fuel oils are highly viscous in nature. Its residues tend to stick to the inner surface of the fuel oil system. With prolonged use, it forms layers of semi-solid sediments and asphaltenic sludge accumulation in the inner parts of fuel oil systems (including serving & setting fuel tanks and pipework). Tank cleaning and pipeline flushing ensure that the remnants of HSFOs are thoroughly cleaned and the engine is ready to fire new fuel at full throttle. Impacts of not cleaning the tank before a fuel changeover.O.5% Sulphur Cap compatible fuel blends are paraffin in nature. This is due to crude sources of blending components as well as a high amount of distillate components. When such fuel is loaded into the HSFO fuel tank without prior cleaning & flushing, it is possible that the fuel dissolves and dislodges the accumulated asphaltenic sludge and sediments adhered to the surface of the fuel service system. This can result in operational issues with the filter and purifier. Extreme scenarios can lead to fuel starvation; further leading to power failure. What are the options for a fuel switch? Some options to choose from to replace HSFO with LSFO are:
What are the options for tank cleaning with approximate timelines?Fuel tanks must be regularly cleaned to remove build-up and improve engine performance. For a fuel changeover, some tank cleaning options are:
1. Manual Cleaning during dry docking: - Manual cleaning during dry docking takes 2 to 4 days per tank. Flushing the pipework of the fuel service system takes 1 to 2 weeks. Once the fuel tanks are cleaned, you can start loading the compliant fuel blends right away. If only fuel tanks are cleaned during dry docking, it takes 2 to 5 days to flush out the pipework and ensure compliance with the 0.5% Sulphur cap. 2.Manual Cleaning during service: -Before tank cleaning, It is mandatory to perform risk assessment and mitigation to ensure operational safety. The timeline for manual cleaning depends on the number of tanks, size of tanks, number of crew members, and who is appointed for tank cleaning. The existing ship crew takes 4 days to 1 week per tank. Riding crew (working in shifts) takes 2 to 4 days per tank. Once all the tanks are cleaned, it takes 1 to 2 days for flushing the pipework. Always inspect the tank, the heating coils, and the overall tank condition once the cleaning process is completed. Besides, conduct pressure tests and necessary repairs. 3.Use additives for tank cleaning: -This method is an alternative to manual cleaning. Additives are dosed into the HSFO tank that gradually cleans the sediments and asphaltic sludge from the fuel service system. Specified doses of additives are added at regular time intervals. It takes over 6 months to effectively control the engine at 0.5% of Sulphur emission load. NOTE: the timeline mentioned is an estimation and not precise. It varies depending on factors like the time interval between two clean-ups, the effectiveness of the cleaning process, and the condition of the fuel service system. Besides, it takes time in emptying the fuel tanks. Take it into consideration for overall time estimation. You must retain onboard the residue from tank cleaning and dispose of it correctly at the shore reception facilities. What are the dangers of entering enclosed spaces?The enclosed spaces might be oxygen-enriched, oxygen deficient, and/or contain inflammable/toxic gases/vapors. There is a higher risk of hazard and increased probability of mishaps while entering enclosed spaces. Zone Zero Atmosphere requires specialized gas detectors and custom tools to perform the job in compliance with safety protocols. How we can make a difference?We at Advanced Tech Solutions are offering top-class Industrial and Marine Services for x years. We strictly abide by regulatory guidelines, safety protocols, and timelines. Our company meets all the Global Health & Safety Standards. We have the latest technology tools & equipment as well as highly trained staff to work in enclosed spaces. We offer superior quality tank cleaning services that involve:
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ATS is a specialized Industrial & Commercial cleaning service provider,NADCA Accredited Air duct cleaning services provider in Saudi Arabia.And currently expanding towards to the field of Industrial & Marine services.
نُقدم في شركة حلول التقنية المتقدمة اي تي اس حلول متطورة في مجال الخدمات الصناعية والبحرية، كما نقدم خدمات مختصة في مجال تنظيف مجاري الهواء (الدكتات) وتعقيمها وذلك عبر أيدي احترافية وباس Floor 7, Boubyan Tower, Prince Turki Bin Abdulaziz St, Al Khobar, Postal Code 34423, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
+966 9200 11195
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