The reduction of sulphur oxide (SOx) emissions from marine vessels has been a priority for quite some time now. IMO regulations to reduce SOx emissions from ships first came into force in 2005, under Annex VI of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships – known as the MARPOL Convention. Since then, SOx emissions have continued to be scrutinized. From January 1st 2020, the limit for sulphur in fuel oil used on board ships operating outside designated emission control areas will be reduced to 0.50% m/m (mass by mass). This will significantly reduce the amount of SOx emanating from ships, therefore bringing tangible health and environmental benefits for the world – particularly for populations living close to ports and major shipping routes.
The main type of bunker oil for maritime vessels is heavy fuel oil, derived as a residue from crude oil distillation. Crude oil contains sulphur which, following combustion in the engine, ends up in ship emissions. SOx are known to be harmful to human health, causing respiratory symptoms and lung disease. In a study on the human health impacts of SOx emissions from ships, it is estimated that by not reducing the SOx limit for ships from 2020, the air pollution from ships would contribute to more than 570,000 additional premature deaths worldwide between 2020-2025. In the atmosphere, SOx can lead to acid rain, which can harm crops, forests and aquatic species, and contributes to the acidification of the oceans. Therefore, through limiting SOx emissions from ships one will not only improve air quality, but will also aid in protecting our environment.
Wärtsilä has developed a full wet scrubber portfolio to fit each of our customer needs, and to meet their requirements in the reduction of SOx. The range of Wärtsilä exhaust gas cleaning system (EGCS) have been tested and certified according to IMO guidelines, thus ensuring safe operation and compliance.
Wärtsilä continuously strives for technological excellence, and to minimize the environmental impact of our scrubber systems.
A Wärtsilä EGCS is a compliant solution for the entirety of your vessel’s lifetime.
The Wärtsilä EGCS body is constructed from over 50% recycled steel.
Our EGCS are engineered with the option to include wash water treatment units in order to ensure the safest possible discharge back to seawater.
In addition, Wärtsilä EGCS not only reduce SOx, but also remove large levels of particulate matter (PM) and black carbon.
Wärtsilä cares about the compliance of your fleet. And we have made it easy for you to get exactly what you need – a compliant and environmentally friendly exhaust gas cleaning solution. Contact our Sales Team today to find out more.