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Bunkering is a vital process in the shipping industry, essential for the operation of vessels. In this article, we explore what bunkering in shipping entails. We will first take a detailed look at what a bunkering operation actually involves before focusing on the procedures and safety measures taken during the fuelling process.


What is bunkering in shipping?

 

In shipping, the term bunkering describes the process of supplying the fuel which is used to power a vessel’s engines and run on-board machinery. Typically, a ship is unable to carry enough fuel to complete long journeys, meaning that bunkering is required at various points to ensure the vessel can reach its destination. When we talk about bunkering, this can also include supplying food and drinking water for crew on-board a vessel. 

Related to this, the term bunker is used to refer to the actual fuel and/or gas or oil that is being supplied and used.

We tend to see three key bunker types used in shipping. These are:

  • Low sulphur fuel oil (LSFO) – this has a reduced sulphur content and its use helps to comply with stricter environmental regulations to mitigate air pollution.

  • High sulphur fuel oil (HSFO) – this has a higher sulphur content but is still compliant with more lenient regulations.

  • Low sulphur marine gas oil (LSMGO) – this cleaner-burning alternative has lower sulphur levels, making it suitable for engines requiring a purer fuel source.

What is a bunkering operation?

 

There are three key stages to a bunkering operation on a ship. Let’s look at each of these in more detail:

1. Preparation
This crucial first step helps to ensure that everything is in place for a safe and successful bunkering operation. Careful preparation helps to avoid any oil spills or other accidents which could pose a potential risk to the environment and/or crew. This stage of the process covers all tasks needed to get everything set-up properly, such as:

    1. Inspecting all bunkering equipment (e.g. hoses and pumps)
    2. Checking the vessel’s storage tanks to make sure they can receive marine fuels
    3. Ensuring all necessary safety measures are in place (e.g. handrails, ropes, lighting)
    4. Making sure all staff involved in the bunkering process are fit for work (i.e. are not overworked)

2. Performance
The second step in a bunkering operation covers the process of actually bunkering fuel to the ship. This requires close coordination between all involved personnel to ensure they meticulously follow the pre-agreed bunkering plan and comply with any safety measures. This second stage includes tasks such as:

    1. Ensuring the controlled transfer of fuel by following relevant guidelines throughout the full bunkering process
    2. Closely monitoring the bunkering process so that any unexpected issues can be addressed quickly and effectively

3. Wrap up
The third and final stage of a bunkering operation refers to wrapping up the process. In other words, making sure the bunkering operation is completed safely and accurately. The wrap up stage of a bunkering operation includes tasks such as:

    1. Conducting a final safety assessment to ensure safety measures were followed at every stage
    2. Checking the ship received the correct type and amount of fuel onboard
    3. Officially bringing the bunkering operation to a close, making sure to keep a detailed record of the process

What are bunkering services?

 

There are three different types of bunkering services available:

  1. Pipe-to-ship (PTS) – a terminal installed on a dock supplies fuel to the ship’s tanks
  2. Ship-to-ship (STS) – fuel is transferred from one specialised ship to another
  3. Truck-to-ship (TTS) – tanker trucks in the dock are used to load the ship’s tanks

 

The decision on which type of bunkering service to choose will depend on the individual circumstances of each scenario, and should take into consideration any regulatory requirements, engine compatibility, and environmental considerations.

Given the cost and risk involved in bunkering, securing the right support is crucial. Choosing a partner with extensive bunkering experience, such as Clarksons, will help your business to:

  • Minimise any risk of accident or injury
  • Ensure the correct safety procedures are in place
  • Avoid delays by ensuring bunkering operations are carried out in a timely manner
  • Avoid operational disruptions by ensuring the supplied fuel is of the agreed quality and quantity

 

As a global leader in maritime solutions, Clarksons provides bunkering support at ports around the world and ensures that your maritime bunkering operation needs are met with efficiency and cost-effectiveness.