Fuel conditioner trial results indicate 5% fuel saving

The trial of SulNOx’s fully biodegradable fuel conditioner SulNOxEco was conducted in cooperation with a Hamburg-based shipping company and a renowned Northern German university for maritime shipping.

Trial results

SulNOxEco Diesel Conditioner was applied to the vessel’s fuel under real operating conditions during commercial voyages in the North Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. Baseline measurements of fuel consumption on the two stroke MAN B&W 6S35MC engine were taken at 60% and 70% engine load, and then repeated using SulNOxEco treated fuel.

The project measured a consistent 5-6% reduction in specific fuel consumption using a 1:2000 ratio of SulNOxEco Diesel Conditioner in MDO fuel (DIN ISO 8217). 

The project partners plan a further trial application of SulNOxEco on an engine running VLSFO where experts from the shipping company and the university expect an even greater fuel-saving effect.

Previous studies of SulNOxEco have shown a reduction in harmful PM 2.5 particulate matter emissions of over 60% and reduction in engine maintenance costs of around 2% thanks to the product’s impact by improved combustion, detergency and lubricity.

Wider implications

Ben Richardson, CEO of SulNOx was keen to draw attention to the advantages of significant fuel savings and emissions reductions for the maritime industry given regulatory developments. “Meeting the maritime industry’s emissions reductions target is an ecological and moral imperative and also makes perfect business sense. Shipowners face tough decisions on future fuel choices, but we must take action on decarbonisation today. Our fuel conditioners are an immediate, easy win to make the most of current fuels, save money and cut harmful emissions,” Richardson said.