Marine Link
Thursday, March 28, 2024
SUBSCRIBE

Mineral Oil News

15 Feb 2024

Is Stern Tube Damage Declining?

Shaft removal during stern tube repair procedures courtesy of Marine and Industrial Transmissions.
Photo courtesy Marine and Industrial Transmissions

It might be easy to blame EALs, but the ongoing causes of stern tube damage are varied, and possibly declining.Environmentally Acceptable lubricants (EALs) gained market traction with the introduction of US VGP regulations in 2013. Since then, DNV has observed two major trends. The first, starting in 2013 was early life damage, either during sea trials or within the first five years of operation, where aft stern tube bearings typically failed under extreme load conditions. Then from around 2018…

15 Oct 2023

Gard: Increase in Stern Tube Damage Concerning

Source: Gard

The number of stern tube-related damage claims has increased considerably over the last few years, and this is causing marine insurer Gard some concern.In the past, damage to a stern tube was often considered a relatively straightforward casualty by surveyors. The cause was often obvious – contact with a floating object such as ice, fishing nets or ropes, for example.These causes still exist, but the significant increase in frequency over the past years, without any apparent explanation…

08 Mar 2023

French Strike Disrupts Rhine River Traffic

© philipbird123 / Adobe Stock

Rhine river traffic came to a standstill in some places on Wednesday due to strikes against French government plans to raise the pension age, with sections of the river in France, Germany and Switzerland affected, a CGT union representative and Germany's Waterways and Shipping Administration (WSA) said.Around 1.28 million people in France had participated in a sixth day of protests on Tuesday against a draft law that would see the pension age delayed by two years to 64.A blockade at Strasbourg lock on the Rhine was cleared by police and an evacuation of the blockades at the Marckolsheim lock…

13 Jan 2023

Quinto Orders Inland Waterway Tanker from Concordia Damen

(Image: Concordia Damen)

Last week, Dutch shipyard Concordia Damen was commissioned to build and equip an inland shipping tanker for Quinto Scheepvaart B.V. from Zwijndrecht. At This also marks the switch, after 25 years, that family business Quinto makes from container shipping to tanker shipping.Quinto Scheepvaart has opted for a tanker of the Parsifal type, a new generation of mineral (oil and light chemicals) tankers that Concordia Damen has developed itself and several of which are already operational.

20 May 2021

New Report Helps UK MCA Prepare for Offshore Oil Spill Challenges

Credit: Xodus Group

The UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency's (MCA) future oil spill response plan will be informed by a new report that maps out possible threats to the UK's coastal areas, marine life, and traffic as a result of hydrocarbon releases from energy industry operation and shipping.The report on the review of the hydrocarbon release risk on the UKCS over the next decade was delivered for the MCA, by Xodus Group, in association with London Marine Consultants.The review evaluated the risk of a serious mineral oil release occurring in UK waters from vessels of more than 1…

19 Feb 2021

Port of Rotterdam Freight Volumes See Biggest Drop in Decade, But Smaller Than Expected

Credit: Kalyakan/AdobeStock

Freight volumes in the Port of Rotterdam fell 6.9% in 2020 because of the coronavirus crisis, the biggest drop in about a decade but smaller than had been expected, Europe’s largest sea port said on Friday.The port's Chief Executive Allard Castelein told reporters he expected a recovery that began in the second half of 2020 to continue this year but said throughput was not expected to reach pre-crisis levels in 2021.The fall in traffic in 2020 was the largest since 2009, taking throughput down to levels last seen in 2011, he said.Traffic took a big hit in the first phase of the pandemic, as tr

02 Feb 2021

AT 80: ZF Debuts New Thruster Range

The new thruster model range AT 80 from ZF can be adapted to customer requests in various configurations – such as when used as Z-Drive. Photo: ZF

ZF launched its new ZF AT 80 thruster model range today via the SMM Digital maritime trade fair. The range is available as a 360-degree steerable thruster and as a retractable propulsion system, or as a bow thruster, effectively broadening its appeal among ship owners, shipbuilders and naval architects."With this model range, we have created a new generation of environmentally friendly, powerful and efficient propulsion solutions. This way, naval architects, shipyards and fleet…

21 Dec 2020

Thordon Expresses Concern Over New VIDA Proposals

Thordon’s seawater lubricated propeller shaft bearing system eliminates oil pollution from the ocean and waterways (Image: Thordon Bearings)

Thordon Bearings has added to the growing concern over proposed changes to Vessel Incidental Discharge National Standards of Performance (VIDA) requirements, citing far reaching environmental consequences if clauses in the existing document are removed.In a statement submitted to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on November 20, 2020, the Canada-based bearings and seals pioneer “strongly questions the removal of some text” in the proposed amendments, stating that…

03 Apr 2020

Lubrication Selection Fundamentals

© Wojciech Wrzesień / Adobe Stock

As an operator of vessels, you understand that lubricants play an important role in helping you achieve your operational objectives. Yet, finding the right one can be overwhelming since there’s an almost unlimited number of different lubricant formulations. An understanding of lubrication chemistry, performance expectations and operational objectives will help you select a lubricant that will improve operations and lower your overall costs.Lubrication benefitsThe basic function of a lubricant is to reduce friction by separating interacting surfaces.

13 Feb 2020

Port of Rotterdam Throughput Flat in 2019

The largest seaport in Europe Port of Rotterdam saw a freight throughput of 469.4 million tonnes in 2019, fractionally higher than in 2018 (469 million tonnes).According to a release, investments by the Port of Rotterdam Authority were again at a high level, with gross investments including participation amounting to €338.3 million (2018: €408.1 million). The net result excluding taxes amounted to €241 million (2018: €254.1 million).Significant underlying shifts were observable between the various commodities. Whereas crude oil, container, LNG and biomass throughput increased, coal and mineral oil product throughput decreased.Over the past year significant progress has been made with digitization and the energy transition…

22 Oct 2019

Rotterdam Port Continues to Grow in Q3

The Port of Rotterdam announced  a 1% rise in cargo handing, after it handled 112.4 million tonnes of freight, meaning that the total of 353.5 million tonnes were transmitted up to the end of the third quarter.Volume growth was mainly driven by containers, crude oil, LNG and biomass. There was a reduction in the transshipment of coal and mineral oil products.Allard Castelein, Port of Rotterdam Authority CEO: "In the third quarter we again saw healthy growth in terms of containers, one of the Port Authority’s strategic spearheads. What is worrying, however, is that the relationship between the world’s major trading blocs remains strained…

27 Aug 2019

Klüber Lubrication Improves Gearbox Performance

Photo: Klüber

Klüber Lubrication, a manufacturer of specialty lubricants, introduces industrial gear oils to their maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) portfolio.There is a current demand for the transmission of ever-growing power and torque in gears of all performance grades. This demand, combined with reduced gear size and weight, requires the application of mineral and synthetic high-performance lubricants.The MRO gear oils from Klüber Lubrication are designed to optimize gearbox performance across many industries…

06 Jun 2019

DNV GL Updates Shaft Alignment Design Rules

Classification society DNV GL DNV GL informed that it will update its shaft alignment design rules to differentiate between Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants (EALs) and mineral oils in stern tubes.The update, will apply from 1 July 2019, and is based on the phase 1 findings from the joint development project (JDP) DNV GL has been operating along with the Swedish Club, Norwegian Hull Club, Gard and Skuld.The JDP was prompted by an upsurge in stern tube bearing failures that coincided with the increased uptake of EALs after the introduction of regulations requiring their use in commercial vessels trading in U.S. waters in late 2013.In phase 1 the JDP has focused on mapping out differences in the load carrying capacity between EALs and mineral oils.

18 Apr 2019

Volume Rises at Port of Rotterdam

Port of Rotterdam posted a record overall freight tonnage in the first quarter of 2019, up 5.1% on the same period last year, thanks to strong growth in container traffic.In total, 123.9 million tonnes were handled compared with 117.8 million tonnes in the same period in 2018."The increase mainly concerned the throughput of containers (+7.3% in TEU, +5.9% in tonnes) and fuels. Mineral oil products, iron ore and scrap throughput fell," said a press release from the largest port in Europe, located in the city of Rotterdam.Allard Castelein, CEO Port of Rotterdam Authority: "We had an excellent start to 2019 with record throughput volumes in the first quarter.

14 Feb 2019

Rotterdam Port Achieves TEU Milestone in 2018

Europe's largest port, the Port of Rotterdam ended 2018 with a total container throughput at 469.0 million tonnes (MT) which slightly higher than in 2017,  which was itself a record year (467.4 MT).Container transhipment was the engine of growth again, with a 4.5% increase in tonnage. Measured in TEUs, the standard unit for containers, the increase was 5.7% and the annual total was 14.5 million TEUs – also a record.This strengthens the position of Europe’s largest container port in this strategically important market segment. Significant underlying shifts were observable in the goods segments.Whereas container transhipment continued to grow at a healthy pace, that of crude oil, mineral oil products and agribulk fell.

24 Dec 2018

Global Marine Lubricants Market to Grow by 2.17% to Hit USD 6.66 bln in 2023

The global marine lubricants market is estimated to be USD 5.98 billion in 2018 and is projected to reach USD 6.66 billion by 2023, at a CAGR of 2.17% from 2018 to 2023.The growth of the market is driven by the emerging alternative technology trends, said a report by  Research and Markets.Also, rising infrastructure developments (port infrastructure) to strengthen the shipping industry globally are fueling trade activities, leading to the growth of marine lubricants market. However, fewer trade activities and the rising number of idle ships are restraining the market's growth.Mineral oil is the largest oil type segment of the global marine lubricants market. By oil type, the mineral oil segment is estimated to account for the largest share of the global marine lubricants market in 2018.

19 Dec 2018

Rotterdam Port Awards Green Award Discount for Vessels

The Port of Rotterdam Authority will widen and facilitate the Green Award discount for sea-going shipping from the start of 2019.The discount will encourage safe and green shipping in the liquid bulk segment. From 2019 onwards, certified chemical tankers and sea-going vessels with a cargo capacity (DWT) of less than 20,000 tons may also make use of the scheme.Also new for 2019 is that the Port Authority is making the port dues process more customer friendly for shipping lines whose vessels call at the Port of Rotterdam. In close collaboration with the market, the billing process will be more complete, quicker and more transparent. The changes to the billing of seaport, buoy and dolphin dues, together with waste charges will be implemented first.

04 Dec 2018

Danish Maritime Authority Calls for Renewal of Shipping Documents

Time has come to apply for renewal of CLC, Bunker, Athens and Wreck Removal Certificates from the Danish Maritime Authority (DMA). The certificates must be renewed once a year when the underlying insurance expires.According to DMA, ships that are required to hold a certificate must not operate without valid certificates.Many certificates expire on 20 February 2019.These are typically  CLC, Bunker, Athens and Wreck Removal Certificates based on P&I insurance.Some CLC, Bunker, Athens and WRC Certificates expire on dates other than 20 February 2019. That typically goes for certificates issued on the basis of declarations on cover for liability (Blue Cards) from insurance companies that are not members of the International Group of P&I Clubs.

10 Oct 2018

Marine Lubricants Market to Reach USD 3.3 Bln by 2024

The global marine lubricants market is anticipated to expand a robust CAGR of 4.17% during the forecasts period 2016 - 2024, says a study.According a recent study done by Transparency Market Research marine lubricants market which was valued US$2.3 bn is predicted to touch US$3.3 bn by the end of assessed period.On the basis of type of product, the global marine lubricants market is segregated into bio-based oil, mineral oil, and synthetic oil. Of these, the demand for mineral oil is high and is likely to remain like this during the forecast period owing to cost benefits that are provided. This is expected to become the most lucrative segment.Geographically, Asia Pacific is anticipated to hold a robust share attributing to increasing demand for marine lubricants.

23 Sep 2018

Koole Terminals Acquires Odfjell Terminals Rotterdam

Odfjell Terminals entered into an agreement with Koole Terminals B.V. of the Netherlands (Koole) to sell its 100% ownership of Odfjell Terminals Rotterdam (OTR).The sale will generate USD 100 million of cash proceeds to Odfjell. Odfjell announced that the transaction has closed.According to  Koole Terminals, Odfjell Terminals will be rebranded to Koole Tankstorage Botlek (KTB). Located in the heart of the Port of Rotterdam, KTB stores both chemical and mineral oil products and operates a PID facility.John Kraakman, CEO Koole Terminals: “We are pleased to extend our terminal network and will work hard to transform KTB further into a state of the art terminal, where safety is our priority number one.

13 Aug 2018

GEA Presents New Marine Separator

GEA presents innovative solutions that combine environmental protection with economy - The new GEA marine Separator increases efficiency on board.The new GEA separator for marine applications massively changes the working day on board. After a service interval of 16,000 operating hours, the compact plug-and-play exchange unit is replaced. No unplanned maintenance is required.The maintenance effort on board is reduced by up to 90% with simultaneous lower maintenance costs and maximum machine availability. GEA customers receive an OEM-certified, interchangeable drive module delivered to a location of their choice worldwide - same day delivery is possible.

26 Jul 2018

Port of Rotterdam Throughput Drops 2.2% in 1H 2018

The port of Rotterdam achieved throughput of 232.8 million tonnes in the first six months of 2018. That is 2.2% less than in the first six months of 2017.Container throughput, one of the strategic priorities of the Port Authority, rose by 5.9% (in tonnes, 6.2% in TEU) by comparison with the first six months of 2017, including a new throughput record in May.The market share of Rotterdam by comparison with the other ports in the Hamburg-Le Havre range increased from 30.9% (Q1 2017) to 31.2% (Q1 2018)¹However, the rise in container handling did not offset the fall in the throughput of wet and dry bulk. The decline in bulk goods was mainly seen in the throughput of coal…

16 Jul 2018

Thordon Bearings: EAL Protection in a Class of its Own

The ideal solution for the tightening regulatory noose also brings a different (and welcome) shade of ‘green’ for workboat operators.As the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA ramps up enforcement of regulations that mandate that all vessels over 24 meters (78 feet) operating in US waters must switch over to EALs in all oil-to-sea interfaces before their next drydocking, it is an arguably good time to be in the lubricants business. At the same time, Thordon Bearings, a manufacturer of seawater lubricated bearings for the marine industry has its own thoughts on that very topic. Specifically, Craig Carter, Thordon Bearings’ Director of Marketing and Customer Service, asks, “What is the point in shipowners investing in costly bio-lubricants when seawater is widely available and 100% free?