On 7 Nov 2019, the Singapore Standards Council launched the SS 648 : 2019 Code of Practice for Bunker Mass Flow Metering that will replace TR 48 : 2015 Technical Reference for Bunker Mass Flow Metering.
SS 648 addresses new challenges that arose from practical usage following the implementation of TR 48. Enhancements in SS 648 include the following:
- an expanded scope to include distillate fuels and bunkers that meet IMO regulations;
- the new requirements for multi meter installation which will enable bunker suppliers to better meet the needs of bunker buyers by offering the delivery of a wider range of parcel sizes and different grades of bunker fuels through a multi meter system;
- the enhancement of zero verification procedure to provide users with better understanding on the possible causes of changes to zero offset of the meter and how to perform zero verification to ensure accurate measurement of bunker fuel using MFM system; and
- the role of bunker surveyors in mass flow meter (MFM) bunkering regime was further strengthened, detailing the key tasks to be carried out during the bunkering operation to provide greater support and service to the bunker buyers.
Developed under the auspices of the Technical Committee (TC) for Bunkering, managed by the Standards Development Organisation at Singapore Chemical Industry Council (SDO@SCIC), the development of SS 648 is an industry-led effort. The Working Group comprises key representatives from the bunker supply chain, including bunker suppliers/ tanker operators, bunker surveyors, ship owners/ buyers, and relevant authorities.
The precursor standard TR 48 is used as a base standard for MFM bunkering international standards that are under development by International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the internationalisation of SS 648 helps to encourage the harmonisation of best practices and increase operational efficiency of shipping industry.
For more information on SS 648, please refer here.
