Gulf-Bunkering provides marine fuel trading solutions for Intermediate Fuel Oil, connecting vessel operators with compliant residual fuel products through our global supply networks. Whether you’re coordinating in-port bunkering at major maritime hubs or arranging offshore fuel transfers, our team facilitates IFO procurement that aligns with your operational requirements and vessel specifications.
IFO 180 and IFO 380 represent traditional residual marine fuels characterized by their viscosity grades (180 cSt and 380 cSt at 50°C respectively). These heavy fuel oils have historically served as the workhorse bunker fuels for commercial shipping, offering cost-effective propulsion for vessels equipped with appropriate fuel handling and treatment systems. While regulatory developments have shifted market dynamics, IFO grades remain relevant for vessels operating with compliant emissions abatement technology or in specific operational contexts.
Vessel Compatibility
IFO 180/380 is typically utilized by:
- Large container vessels with scrubber systems
- Bulk carriers equipped for heavy fuel oil combustion
- Tankers (crude, product, chemical) with fuel treatment capabilities
- General cargo vessels operating on international routes
- Offshore support vessels with appropriate fuel systems
- Older vessel classes designed for residual fuel operation
Market Positioning and Availability
IFO 180/380 maintains availability across major bunkering hubs worldwide, though market positioning has evolved significantly following IMO 2020 sulphur regulations. Vessels equipped with exhaust gas cleaning systems (scrubbers) continue to utilize high sulphur IFO where operationally and commercially advantageous, while compliant low sulphur variants serve vessels without emissions abatement technology. Pricing dynamics for IFO grades reflect the fuel’s position as a refinery residual product, typically offering cost advantages compared to distillate fuels, though price spreads vary by region and regulatory environment. Supply infrastructure remains robust at established bunkering ports, with delivery coordination available through truck-to-ship, barge-to-ship, and pipeline methods depending on port facilities and fuel quantities.
Operational Characteristics
- Requires heating for proper viscosity during transfer and combustion (typically 40-50°C for pumping, 120-150°C for injection)
- Demands fuel treatment systems including centrifugal purification and filtration to remove water and particulates
- Storage tanks must maintain temperature control to prevent excessive viscosity and ensure pumpability
- Combustion requires preheating to achieve proper atomization and efficient burn characteristics
- Fuel handling systems must accommodate higher density and potential sediment content compared to distillate fuels
- Purifier operation and sludge management form integral parts of IFO utilization protocols
Composition and Specifications
- ISO 8217 Grade: RMG 180 or RMG 380 (residual marine fuel, max viscosity 180 cSt or 380 cSt at 50°C)
- Sulphur content: High Sulphur Fuel Oil (HSFO) variants typically 2.5-3.5% sulphur; Low Sulphur variants ≤0.50% sulphur
- Density: Approximately 960-1010 kg/m³ at 15°C depending on specific grade and composition
- Flash point: Minimum 60°C as per SOLAS requirements
- Pour point: Maximum 30°C to ensure pumpability under operational conditions
- Carbon residue: Typically 12-18% indicating residual fuel characteristics
- Ash content: Maximum 0.10% to minimize combustion deposits and engine wear
Environmental Impact and Emissions Profile
IFO combustion generates higher emissions of sulphur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter compared to distillate marine fuels. High sulphur IFO variants produce significant SOx emissions unless utilized with exhaust gas cleaning systems that reduce sulphur emissions to compliant levels. Carbon dioxide emissions per unit energy remain comparable to other petroleum-based marine fuels, though total emissions depend on engine efficiency and operational profiles. Vessels burning IFO without scrubber technology must utilize low sulphur variants meeting 0.50% sulphur limits to comply with global emission standards, while those operating in Emission Control Areas require either 0.10% sulphur fuel or approved equivalent emissions abatement.
Regulatory Compliance
IMO 2020 regulations established a global 0.50% sulphur limit for marine fuels, fundamentally altering IFO market dynamics. Vessels may continue using high sulphur IFO (HSFO) only when equipped with approved exhaust gas cleaning systems that achieve equivalent emissions reductions. Low sulphur IFO variants meeting 0.50% sulphur requirements provide compliant alternatives for vessels without scrubbers, though availability and specifications vary by supply region. MARPOL Annex VI requirements govern sulphur content, with stricter 0.10% limits applicable within designated Emission Control Areas unless vessels utilize approved alternative compliance methods. Fuel suppliers must provide bunker delivery notes documenting sulphur content and ISO 8217 compliance, with vessel operators responsible for maintaining fuel records and demonstrating regulatory adherence during port state inspections.
Ready to coordinate IFO 180/380 procurement for your fleet? Contact Gulf-Bunkering at contact@gulf-bunkering.com to discuss fuel specifications, delivery coordination, and supply solutions tailored to your operational requirements.
Need competitive IFO pricing across multiple ports? Our trading team provides market insights and fuel procurement coordination that supports efficient voyage planning and cost management across your global operations.