The first week of September saw 50,000 visitors from around the world descend on Hamburg, Germany for SMM, a huge maritime tradeshow featuring 2,289 exhibitors.
Total Lubmarine and Total Marine Fuels Global Solutions joined forces to provide advice to ship operators facing the uncertainties and added complexities of fuel and lubricant choice in advance of the 2020 Global Sulphur Cap. The Cap, which comes into force on 1 January 2020, is challenging vessel operators who need to make difficult choices as to whether to install scrubber systems, invest in LNG engines or purchase potentially expensive low-sulphur fuel oil (VLFSO) or marine gas oil (MGO).
At a series of customer seminars taking place throughout SMM week, Total Lubmarine and Marine Fuels emphasized that whatever choice the customer makes, Total has both a fuel and lubricant solution.
“When it comes to 2020 and fuel choice, there is no single right solution,” said Total Lubmarine Global Marketing Manager Serge Dal Farra. “However, we would recommend that any ship operator works closely with a trusted bunker supplier. Total is an integrated group which provides expertise and assets in refining, trading, LNG, bunkers and of course lubricants.”
He added that Total is a responsible company with a strong commitment towards safety, security and has the highest standards of integrity.
Lubricant choice goes hand-in-hand with fuel choice, and low and zero sulphur fuels bring with them their own lubrication challenges. Total Lubmarine believes that low ash chemistry will be the basis for the next generation of engine oils, particularly for dual-fuel engines or those diesel engines fitted with selective catalytic reduction systems. Total Lubmarine is currently also developing new lube oils designed to help reduce CO2 emissions.
Total enjoyed a high profile show and was delighted to see so many customers and partners at its stand.
