ClassNK low-flashpoint fuels guidelines
(Posted on 17/06/19)
In order to reduce atmospheric pollution caused by sulphur oxides (SOx) and particle matter (PM) found in vessel emissions as well as weather effects caused by GHG emissions, environmental regulations have been getting more strongly enforced. In theory, ships using alternative fuels such as LNG, LPG, and methyl/ethyl alcohol can reduce the amount of CO2 emissions by 10% to 20% compared to conventional oil fuels, and they do not contain sulphur. For this reason, alternative fuels are expected to be an effective solution for the regulations.
These alternative fuels have lower flashpoints compared to traditional fuels, therefore particular attention needs to be given to ensuring adequate safety precautions when using low-flashpoint fuels in order to decrease the potential risk of fire and explosions that may arise as a result of fuel leakage onboard the ship. International safety requirements for low-flashpoint fuels have been discussed at IMO and as a result, the International Code of Safety for Ships using Gases or other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code) has been adopted and enforced. The current code however, does not address specific regulations for alternative fuels other than LNG.
ClassNK released the Guidelines for Ships Using Low-Flashpoint Fuels (Methyl/Ethyl Alcohol / LPG) which outline safety requirements for other viable alternative fuels besides LNG, based on the latest technology and regulation trends in order to promote the design of alternative fueled ships. The guidelines divide targeted vessels into three categories: ships using methyl/ethyl alcohol as fuel, ships fuelled by LPG, and liquid gas carriers fuelled by LPG. They take into consideration the properties of each fuel type and ship regulations and indicate safety requirements for the arrangement and installation of the low-flashpoint fuel related systems for minimizing risks to vessels, crew, and the environment.
The guidelines reflect current trends and will be amended periodically in accordance with any changes in the IGF Code during future IMO discussions and the rapid development of new technologies.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Hayato Suga, Corporate Officer and Director of Plan Approval and Technical Solution Division said “In addition to LNG, low-flashpoint fuels like Methyl/Ethyl Alcohol and LPG are providing ships with alternative fuel options that have diverse characteristics in terms of environmental performance, availability, price, and more. Regardless of the choice, adequate safety measures are essential. Our latest guidelines have incorporated regulatory trends and our expertise proposes the appropriate requirements tailored to Methyl, Ethyl Alcohol, and LPG respectively. I hope they will be well utilized for the efficient design and construction practice of ships using those fuels”.
Latest News
DNV and RSI complete study on decarbonising short sea dry bulk fleet
(Posted on 07/08/25)Amid increasing pressure on shipping to achieve the IMO 2050 decarbonization targets, the Responsible... Read more
London P&I Club warns industry over incorrect FIBC loading
(Posted on 04/08/25)The London P&I Club has renewed calls on ship owners, operators and charterers to address potential... Read more
Columbia Group calls for overhaul of maritime training
(Posted on 04/08/25)Columbia Group is calling for urgent reforms in maritime education to address a growing shortage of... Read more
MIS launches as new global media platform
(Posted on 30/07/25)Maritime Information Services (MIS) has officially launched as a global media platform delivering daily... Read more
Russian and Ukrainian seafarers continue struggle with psychiatric fallout of war
(Posted on 30/07/25)Russian and Ukrainian seafarers continue to experience significant psychological strain following the... Read more
Noatum expands global footprint with inauguration of Shanghai office
(Posted on 30/07/25)Noatum Maritime, part of AD Ports Group’s Maritime & Shipping Cluster, announced the official... Read more
Smart Ship Hub emission reporting first through Asiatic Lloyd partnership
(Posted on 21/07/25)Leading vessel optimisation platform Smart Ship Hub has announced its partnership with AL Group &ndash... Read more
KR Representative LEE Jungkun Elected Chair of IACS Safety Panel
(Posted on 21/07/25)KR (Korean Register) has announced that LEE Jungkun, General Manager of KR’s Convention &... Read more
INTERCARGO-member fleets outperform on safety and compliance
(Posted on 17/07/25)Dry bulk carriers entered with the International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO) continue... Read more
NEMO strengthens global role with official status from IMO and IAEA
(Posted on 15/07/25)The Nuclear Energy Maritime Organization (NEMO) is proud to announce that it has officially been granted... Read more
