The Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) published a study highlighting potential issues with biofuel blending. The study suggests that combining FAME-based biofuels with residual marine fuel grades, such as VLSFO and HSFO, might alter their viscosity.
This alteration could result in the fuel's viscosity moving beyond the validated operational limits of mass flow meters (MFMs). The GCMD's research specifically addresses difficulties encountered by shipowners.
These challenges relate to ensuring the correct quantity of bio-blended bunker supplies. The study focuses on these practical implications for the maritime industry.
The findings from the GCMD study are significant for stakeholders involved in marine fuel procurement and bunkering operations. Understanding these viscosity changes is crucial for maintaining accurate measurements.
The report underscores the need for careful consideration of fuel properties when integrating biofuels into the marine energy mix. This is particularly important for the reliable functioning of onboard systems.
