The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has officially published the seventh edition of ISO 8217:2024, the international standard specifying requirements for marine fuels. This comprehensive update addresses the evolving landscape of marine fuels, incorporating new types of fuels and advanced testing methodologies to ensure safety, efficiency, and environmental compliance in the maritime industry.
Key Highlights of ISO 8217:2024
Expanded Scope and Definitions
The standard now includes updated terms and definitions to reflect the current state of the industry. This includes clearer definitions for various sulfur content categories and bio-based fuels, ensuring all stakeholders have a common understanding.
New Categories and Requirements
Distillate Fuels: New requirements for distillate fuels include reporting the fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) content, which can now be up to 100%. Other significant updates include the removal of seasonal quality distinctions for cloud point and cold filter plugging point, and the introduction of minimum cetane number and oxidation stability requirements.
Residual Fuels: The standard outlines specific categories for residual fuels with sulfur content both below and above 0.50% by mass. Additionally, it includes categories for bio-residual marine fuels, promoting the use of sustainable fuel alternatives.
Advanced Testing Methods
The updated standard specifies comprehensive test methods for determining fuel properties such as density, sulfur content, flash point, hydrogen sulfide content, and more. These rigorous methods ensure that marine fuels meet the high safety and performance standards required for maritime operations.
Environmental Considerations
Reflecting the global shift towards sustainability, ISO 8217:2024 incorporates provisions for bio-based liquid fuels, including FAME and paraffinic diesel fuels derived from renewable sources. These additions support the industry’s transition to more environmentally friendly fuel options.
General and Specific Requirements
The standard lays out general requirements applicable to all marine fuels, as well as specific requirements for fuels consisting of 100% FAME or paraffinic diesel fuel. These detailed guidelines help ensure the compatibility and stability of various fuel types under operational conditions.
Comprehensive Annexes
ISO 8217:2024 includes several new annexes providing additional guidance on fuel composition, ignition characteristics, hydrogen sulfide content, acid number, cold flow characteristics, ash content, and the stability of residual fuels. These annexes offer valuable information to assist users in managing and utilizing marine fuels effectively.
Industry Collaboration
This edition of ISO 8217 was developed in close collaboration with a broad range of stakeholders, including ship owners, ship operators, shipping associations, national standards bodies, classification societies, fuel testing services, engine designers, fuel treatment equipment manufacturers, marine fuel suppliers, and the petroleum industry. This collaborative effort ensures that the standard meets the practical needs and challenges faced by the maritime industry.
Implementation and Compliance
The new standard aligns with international regulations such as the SOLAS Convention and MARPOL Annex VI, which control air pollution from ships. By adhering to ISO 8217:2024, marine fuel suppliers and users can ensure compliance with these crucial regulations, promoting safer and more sustainable shipping practices.
Implications for the Maritime Industry
The introduction of ISO 8217:2024 reflects the maritime industry’s commitment to environmental sustainability and regulatory compliance. By incorporating renewable and alternative fuel sources, the standard supports the transition towards greener shipping practices. Stakeholders, including ship owners, operators, fuel suppliers, and testing services, are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the updated requirements to ensure compliance and optimize fuel performance.
This marks a significant step forward in marine fuel standards, reflecting the maritime industry’s ongoing commitment to innovation, safety, and sustainability.
Availability: ISO 8217:2024 is now available for purchase through the ISO website and national standards bodies. For more information on the standard and how to obtain a copy, Click Here to visit ISO website
About ISO
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is an independent, non-governmental international organization with a membership of 167 national standards bodies. Through its members, ISO brings together experts to share knowledge and develop voluntary, consensus-based, market-relevant international standards that support innovation and provide solutions to global challenges.
Source ISO International Organization for Standardization