The availability of low Base Number (BN) lubes to be used in conjunction with Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (LFSO) has emerged as a key concern of Asia Pacific based ship management companies. That’s according to Mike Wong, Total Lubmarine’s Hong Kong based Technical Director, who held detailed discussions with seven different customers this October in Singapore and Jakarta.
With customers’ technical teams currently carefully assessing their options ahead of the 2020 Global Sulphur Cap deadline, knowing both which lubricant is compatible as well as whether or not there will be ready availability of the product is critical in their decision making. He joined colleagues from across the region to deliver training to customers for the port inspection and the technical visit on board, as part of the Total Lubmarine Academy initiative.
“For some companies, the decision is to scrub their emissions and continue to use high sulfur bunkers. For others, the decision is to use LFSO,” explains Mike Wong. “However, whatever choice the customer makes, Total Lubmarine can provide a compatible solution.”
In October, the 73rd session of the IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) adopted amendments to MARPOL Annex VI to prohibit not just the use, but also carriage of bunkers above 0.50% sulfur on ships (unless they have approved abatement technology onboard). They are set to take effect March 1, 2020.
The two-day trip was also an opportunity for Mike Wong and his team to showcase Total’s 2020 Vision. As an integrated group, Total provides expertise and assets in refining, trading, LNG, bunkers and lubricants. Experts from across the Group are currently advising ship operators in their fuel decision-making process.
Total Lubmarine is able to provide not only a wide range of compatible lubricants, but also customer support around the world including drain oil analysis, onboard equipment, laboratory services, and advisory services.
