Recent bunker alerts have pointed to a growing presence of high-abrasive fuels containing cat fines in several regions.
As explained by Jordan Hatch, the latest VPS Bunker Alerts confirm this upward trend, which is increasingly contributing to operational challenges and disputes within the shipping sector.
If not properly managed, cat fines can cause severe engine wear and, in extreme cases, lead to complete engine failure in a relatively short period of operation. Damage involving multiple cylinder liners and piston rings can be particularly costly and disruptive.
Because vessels typically carry only one or two spare liners on board, extensive damage can quickly exceed onboard repair capacity. This often results in prolonged off-hire periods, as additional spare parts must be sourced and shipped in, with supply chain delays further extending repair timelines.
ISO standards vs engine reality
In response to the growing risks associated with the maritime transport of lithium-ion cells and batteries, the following guidance for shipping lithium-ion cells and batteries in containers.
Lithium-ion cells are the core components of batteries and come in various forms, as they are widely used in portable electronics and electric vehicles because they can efficiently store and release energy through the movement of lithium ions between positive and negative electrodes.
However, due to their chemical properties, lithium-ion cells and batteries are classified as dangerous goods and must be handled with care.
Released against a backdrop of rising concern, the guidance comes as battery-related incidents at sea become both more frequent and more severe.
A key hazard is thermal runaway, a chain reaction that can result in intense fires, the release of toxic gases and even explosive force. These fires are particularly difficult to extinguish and may reignite days or even weeks after the initial incident.
Gravity cannot be controlled and a single lapse may lead to life‑changing or even fatal injuries during cargo operations and work aloft. Protecting crew requires constant awareness, proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and keeping clear of danger zones. Make a Good Catch by staying alert to overhead work and acting early to avoid danger.
Full advisory at the following link.
Below you will find a weekly report dated 6 May 2026, covering the period of 30 April to 6 May, where the following incidents were reported:
Full advisory at the following link.
https://britanniapandi.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/ARC-Weekly-Report-06.05.26.pdf