Product Introduction & Main Application
Arnico’s Low Sulfur Fuel Oil (LSFO) is a residual marine fuel manufactured specifically to meet the IMO MARPOL Annex VI global 0.50% sulfur cap. It is an expertly blended product composed of vacuum residues, cycle oils, and heavy distillates, formulated to have a maximum sulfur content of 0.5% wt and a viscosity ideal for large, slow-speed marine diesel engines. It is the default fuel for the global shipping fleet not equipped with exhaust gas scrubbers.
2. Technical Specifications
| Technical Parameter | RMG 380 (0.5% S) | RMK 500 (0.5% S) | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sulfur Content | ≤ 0.50 | ≤ 0.50 | wt% |
| Kinematic Viscosity at 50°C | ≤ 380 | ≤ 500 | cSt |
| Density at 15°C | ≤ 0.991 | ≤ 0.991 | kg/m³ |
| Calculated Carbon Aromaticity Index (CCAI) | 780 – 870 | 780 – 870 | – |
| Flash Point (PMCC) | ≥ 60 | ≥ 60 | °C |
| Total Sediment (Aged) | ≤ 0.10 | ≤ 0.10 | wt% |
| Vanadium Content | ≤ 200 | ≤ 200 | mg/kg |
3. Features & Benefits
Guaranteed IMO 2020 Compliance: Fully compliant with the global sulfur limit, eliminating the risk of Port State Control fines and detentions.
Excellent Combustion Stability: A CCAI below 870 ensures good ignition and combustion characteristics, protecting engine components from thermal shock and deposit formation.
Low Sediment Potential: The Total Sediment Aged (TSA) test proves the fuel’s chemical stability as-blended, ensuring storage tanks and purification systems remain free of catastrophic sludge drop-out.
Viscosity Control: Delivered within a tight viscosity band, ensuring efficient pre-heating, centrifuging, and atomization by the engine’s fuel injection system.
High Energy Density: Provides the necessary energy for the long voyages of deep-sea vessels, maximizing nautical miles per ton of fuel.
4. Industrial Applications
Main Propulsion Fuel: For two-stroke, crosshead diesel engines in VLCCs, Capesize bulk carriers, and mega container ships.
Auxiliary Engine Power: For four-stroke generator engines and auxiliary boilers onboard.
Industrial Boilers & Utilities: A secondary market for shore-based power plants and district heating plants seeking a cost-effective heavy fuel.
Desulfurization Units: A refinery feedstock for hydrodesulfurization to produce ultra-low sulfur industrial fuels.
5. Safety & Handling
MSDS: This product is a hot, combustible, viscous liquid. Full MSDS is available from Arnico support.
Storage Conditions: Storage tanks must be heated (55-65°C) and have continuous recirculation to maintain homogeneity. Water and sludge must be drained regularly.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): High-temperature protective gear, face shield, and chemical-resistant gloves are mandatory to prevent severe thermal burns.
6. Quality Assurance & COA
Arnico delivers LSFO with a comprehensive Bunker Delivery Note (BDN) and an independent laboratory Certificate of Quality (COQ) conforming to ISO 8217:2017, guaranteeing the sulfur, viscosity, and stability of the bunkered product.
