Fossil Fuels Combustion Challenges

Abstract

With globalization there is growing demand for energy which is scarce and about 90% of global trade is carried by sea. Fossil fuels are consumed to provide energy services and about 95% of human primary energy needs comes from fuels. Though the world is transitioning from fossil fuels to sustainable renewable energy sources, the demand for fossil fuels will continue for several decades. Meanwhile fuel prices are sky rocketing and increasing global warming awareness with the regulatory authority imposing globally more stringent restrictions on carbon emissions, finding efficiency in fuel consumption and effective emission controlling is becoming a daunting task. In the operation of a vessel fuel costs accounts to nearly 30% of the operational costs and for this reason fuel consumption is an area of grave concern. To maximize profits and to reduce environment impact, it is paramount for marine diesel engines to burn fuels efficiently and curtail the harmful carbon emissions. All companies are thriving to improve the efficiency of their vessels with an aim to lower the overall operational costs. In response diesel engines have to be operated cost-effectively and scrupulously maintained so as to keep the specific fuel consumption under control. To measure and monitor the performance of the diesel engine, indicator cards must be taken at regular intervals. Many new technological alternatives that can sustain are emerging from research to reduce fuel consumption, carbon emissions as well meeting stringent environmental regulations. There are several optimization measures like EEDI, SEEMP, and PMS enforced thru statutory authorities towards attaining fuel economy. Thus the measures encouraging application of fuel economy principles are the environmental concerns, economy effect and the regulatory authority framework