laevakütused

Laevakütused, also known as marine fuels or bunker fuels, are petroleum-based products used to power ships. These fuels are a critical component of global trade, enabling the transportation of goods across oceans. The types of laevakütused vary in their viscosity and sulfur content, with different specifications suitable for different types of engines and environmental regulations.

The most common types of laevakütused include heavy fuel oil (HFO), also known as residual fuel oil, which is a thick, viscous fuel derived from the residue of crude oil distillation. HFO is inexpensive but produces significant emissions, including sulfur oxides (SOx) and particulate matter. Marine gas oil (MGO), a lighter fuel similar to diesel, is also used, particularly in smaller vessels or in areas with strict emission controls. Marine diesel oil (MDO) is another common type, offering a balance between the properties of HFO and MGO.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has implemented regulations to reduce sulfur emissions from ships, leading to a shift towards lower-sulfur fuels or the use of exhaust gas cleaning systems (scrubbers). This has also spurred interest in alternative marine fuels such as liquefied natural gas (LNG), methanol, and ammonia, which offer lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional laevakütused. The selection of laevakütused has significant implications for a ship's operational costs, engine performance, and environmental impact.