Konstantinos Vlachos
Technical Manager at Aegean Bulk Carriers
Good scrubber system with some caveats
We installed Alfa Laval PureSOx hybrid scrubbers on two of our Panamax bulk carriers in preparation for IMO 2020. The systems have performed well over 18 months of operation, allowing us to continue burning HFO while meeting emission requirements. Installation was complex and took longer than initially quoted, but this seems to be industry-wide issue with scrubber retrofits. The hybrid capability is valuable as we occasionally trade to ports with open-loop restrictions. Wash water monitoring and documentation for compliance has been straightforward. Running costs are reasonable though the systems do require regular maintenance attention. Overall satisfied with the investment though payback period is longer than initially projected due to lower fuel price spreads.
What went well
Reliable operation, good compliance documentation, hybrid flexibility
Areas for improvement
Complex installation, longer payback than expected