ABS Releases Advisory on Use of Scrubber Systems

Ship emissions file photo via ABS

International classification society ABS has released an advisory on the use of exhaust gas scrubber systems in order for ships to meet increasingly stringent low sulfur fuel requirements, both now and in the future.

The advisory, titled the ABS Advisory on Exhaust Gas Scrubber Systems, seeks help vessel owners and operators fully understand the impact of the regulations and properly assess the available technologies for their fleet.

ABS says that fuel switching, which is frequently utilized in Emission Control Areas today, is not expected to be a viable option in the future. Instead, exhaust gas scrubber systems, use of higher priced low sulfur fuels and alternative fuels are among the options available.

“Owners and operators mindful of stringent low sulfur fuel oil requirements are seeking cost-effective solutions that best meet their expected operating profile,” says ABS Vice President for Operational and Environmental Performance Howard Fireman. “This Advisory highlights the relevant regulatory and technical considerations that should be taken into account when making decisions on how to comply with emissions requirements.”

ABS says that when considering technology and practices to meet emissions regulations, an ABS Operational and Environmental Performance team can help to clarify the requirements and explain the available technologies, including potential safety concerns.

“The first step towards compliance is to develop a thorough understanding of regulations and then review available technologies. The Advisory has been developed specifically for that process,” says Fireman. “Once the options are identified, owners and operators must find the most cost-effective solution that fits within their expected operating profile and ABS is here to assist with such techno-economic analysis.”

ABS has also previously published the Fuel Switching Advisory Notice and the Guide for Propulsion and Auxiliary Systems for Gas Fueled Ships that can help assess and develop solutions to meet emissions requirements.

The Exhaust Gas Scrubber Systems Advisory is available for download from the ABS website, Resources, Publications, All Publications, Exhaust Gas Scrubber Systems.

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