Integr8 Fuels’ Bunker Quality Trends Report May 2023

Analysing data from 60 million metric tons of supply, Integr8 Fuels’ latest biannual report reveals several regional and parametric trends with regards to fuel quality and consistency, including;

• VLSFO obtained in ARA is approximately 14 times more likely to have sulphur levels exceeding 0.50% than Singapore, although with careful buying we can avoid this risk.
• The epicenter for hidden losses associated with density remains in one of Southeast Asia’s most popular ports.
• There are continued challenges of non-homogenous VLSFO blends in the industry.

The report provides an in-depth assessment of key trends across all commercial fuel grades and key ports, answering questions such as, how likely am I to be faced with an off-specification situation, what are the most problematic parameters, which ports pose the highest risk, and what steps should I take when faced with a claim?

Topics covered include:

• The supply landscape relating to availability and specifications
• Off-specification trends and problematic parameters
• Geographical variances and “hot spots”
• ISO 8217:2017 and the headwinds continuing to mute demand
• MARPOL & SOLAS compliance challenges
• The risk of non-homogenous VLSFO blends and the impact to the end user

Download the report (PDF) (Recommended for mobile) >>

About the Author:

Chris Turner, Technical Manager

Chris joined Integr8 Fuels in 2017, spending several years in Singapore before relocating to Dubai. With over 35 years in oil and shipping, he has held roles in laboratory management, physical supply, broking, and trading. More recently, he has focused on technical supervision of exclusive buying and helped develop quality systems for biofuel purchasing, leading to Integr8’s ISCC certification.

An active IBIA Technical Working Group member, Chris is also a regular speaker and panellist at major bunkering conferences worldwide.