Schweröl

Schweröl, also known as heavy fuel oil or bunker fuel, is a residual fuel oil derived from crude oil. It is one of the heaviest and least refined fractions of petroleum. Schweröl is characterized by its high viscosity, high sulfur content, and low energy density compared to lighter fuels like diesel or gasoline.

The primary use of schweröl is as fuel for large industrial furnaces, boilers, and in marine propulsion. Its low cost per unit of energy makes it an attractive option for energy-intensive industries and for ships where fuel cost is a significant operational expense. However, its combustion produces significant amounts of pollutants, including sulfur dioxide (SO2) and particulate matter, which contribute to air pollution and acid rain.

Due to environmental regulations, the use of high-sulfur schweröl has been increasingly restricted, particularly in sensitive areas and for certain applications. This has led to the development and use of lower-sulfur schweröl grades and the adoption of cleaner fuels in shipping and industry. The refining process to produce lighter fuels removes heavier components, leaving behind schweröl as a byproduct. The exact composition of schweröl can vary depending on the crude oil source and the refining process.