FAME is produced from feedstocks like used cooking oil and animal fats, contributing to significant greenhouse gas emission reductions. It can reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by up 90%, possibly higher, depending on the feedstock used.
Its characteristics make it an attractive drop-in solution for operators looking to optimize their fuel strategies without requiring extensive modifications to existing ship engines.
Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) is produced through a process called transesterification. Through transesterification, fatty acids are separated from the glycerins, which creates methyl esters (FAME).
FAME contains about 10% oxygen, setting it apart from hydrotreated vegetable oils (HVO) that have almost no oxygen content. With a density similar to marine gasoil, around 880 kg/m³, FAME offers comparable cold flow properties to a good summer grade marine gasoil, boasting a pour point around 0°C and a cold filter plugging point and cloud point slightly higher, around 10°C. FAME can be stored for up to six months, and under perfect conditions, it can be stored even longer. Versatile in blending, FAME is compatible with marine gasoil and heavy fuel oil.
FAME (Fatty Acid Methyl Ester) is a biodiesel fuel. It's a renewable fuel derived from feedstocks like vegetable oils or animal fats, and it can be used in marine diesel engines either on its own or blended with fossil fuels.
FAME is primarily made from biogenic feedstocks. These feedstocks are processed through a chemical reaction called transesterification to produce FAME.
What is the difference between FAME and HVO fuel?
While both are biofuels, FAME and HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) are produced differently and have distinct properties:
- FAME is produced through transesterification and retains some of the oxygen from its feedstock.
- HVO undergoes hydrotreatment, resulting in a fuel that's chemically similar to petroleum diesel and free of oxygen. HVO generally has better cold weather properties and storage stability compared to FAME.
FAME is primarily used as a diesel fuel substitute. It can be used in:
- Marine vessels
- Road transport (cars, trucks)
- Agricultural machinery
- Stationary power generation
FAME generally has a higher cloud point and pour point than marine gasoil, which can lead to challenges in cold weather operations. Blending with winter grade marine gasoil can help mitigate these issues.
While FAME is compatible with many diesel engines, it's important to consult the engine manufacturer's guidelines. Some engines may require modifications or have limitations on the percentage of FAME that can be used in blends.
FAME can offer reduced emissions of certain pollutants compared to petroleum diesel, including lower particulate matter and carbon monoxide emissions. However, the overall environmental impact depends on factors like feedstock source and production methods.
Explore a partnership with Dan-Bunkering. Our New Fuels team is ready to provide guidance to companies aiming for the IMO’s targets. We invite you to consult with our experts on the following methods to decarbonise.
