1. What It Is:
Marine Gas Oil (MGO) is a distillate marine fuel used in ship engines and marine vessels. It is a lighter, cleaner-burning fuel compared to heavy fuel oil (HFO), and suitable for both main and auxiliary engines.
2. Key Properties:
Sulfur Content:
- Low Sulfur MGO (LSMGO): ≤0.1% (meets IMO 2020 / ECA regulations)
- Standard MGO may have higher sulfur if used outside controlled areas
Density: ~0.85 kg/L
Flash Point: >60°C
Viscosity: Low, easy to handle and inject
Appearance: Clear to light yellow liquid
3. Applications:
- Used in ships, ferries, tugs, and fishing vessels
- Preferred in Emission Control Areas (ECAs) where low sulfur is mandatory
- Also used during manoeuvring or in-port operations
4. Advantages:
- Cleaner combustion, lower emissions (SOx, NOx, particulates)
- Requires less preheating and treatment compared to HFO
- Readily available at most ports
5. Compliance:
- Compliant with IMO 2020 sulfur cap (when LSMGO is used)
- Used as a transition fuel while switching to LNG or scrubber systems
6. Storage & Handling:
- Stored in dedicated clean tanks
- Requires filtration and water separation before use
- Stable and easy to manage on vessels
