1. Bunker Metering System – Features The common method for verification of the fuel quantity received in a bunkering, is the measurement of tank levels. This method has the disadvantages of low accuracy and involves mass to volume calculation with an average temperature. Moreover, the air content caused by tank stripping and the potential     “cappuccino effect” can’t be measured hence not to be included in any calculation. These are the main causes for claims between supplier and buyer. To counter these causes, ship owners and barge operators install special bunker fuel metering systems. Electropneumatic SA has developed a bunker fuel metering system that complies with the OIML directions and is designed for installation both on barges and vessels. The core of our system is based on Coriolis principle for mass measurement and is supported by additional instrumentation to ensure safe bunkering operation and trust worthy data. The system is equipped with high performance computer units to cope with the real time algorithms for the direct mass measurement of the fuel and its quality controls. The combination of the highperformance hardware and its sophisticated software prompts out a transparent real time logging of the bunkering operation. The continuous and simultaneous monitoring and logging of below process parameters are saved in a log file and can be used in case of a dispute or a claim:

• Mass flow (bidirectional)
• Bunker fuel quantity
• Density, pressure and temperature
• Air index

The operation of our system is designed to be user friendly in its operation. Its graphics are designed on the concept of “one touch”. The user can “Start” the operation of the system by simply touching “Start Bunkering” one time. Then our system works in an intelligent auto mode. It prompts irregularity alarms during bunkering to make possible for the crew to intervene quickly. It collects all data from the sensors directly and generates the bunker report (BDN Ticket) upon completion of operation. The report also includes all vital logistic data like bunkering time, average density, temperature, flow rate and viscosity. Even more, all data from current or the previous bunkering events can be retrieved via an event logbook. These and many other functions guarantee an optimum and cost-efficient operation. The added value of our system is that provides several services and not just a measurement. Key Features of our Bunker Fuel Metering System:

• High accuracy (less than ±0.5%)
• Direct mass measurement and real time Volume conversion
• HFO, MGO, MDO all in one system
• Measurement independent of bunker fuel density, temperature and tank geometry
• Real time Graphics and Trends during operation to supervise
• Alarm Functions and History for any abnormality detected (i.e. cappuccino effect)
• Rigid operation – not influenced by external factors (i.e. pipe vibrations)
• Instrumentation with Custody Transfer Certificates on request

    2. Bunker Metering System – Hardware structure 2.1 Overview The Bunker Fuel Metering System consists of one or more Coriolis mass flow meters and the Flow Computer that bears the operator’s display. The mass flow meter performs a direct measurement of mass and temperature with a high accuracy down to 0.1%. The mass flow meter can measure HFO, MDO or MGO and identify it without human interference. Moreover, the physical measurement of the fuel is not affected by its temperature variations or entrained air. The Volume is a calculated value, still with a high accuracy close to 0.1% due to the real time applied calculation formulas. The Flow Computer is a high-performance unit and communicate with the sensors directly. It acquires data and status in real time and process the values to output results or alarms.The software of the Flow Computer is locked and only the log file that is auto-generated is available to the user. The Flow Computer has also an HMI display (heavy duty) where all features of the system are available in well-designed layout. The user enters once the logistic data of bunkering (i.e. expected quantity). The system has also the option to be upgraded and feature a Web-Access service.The websystem transmits all data during a bunkering procedure to an onshore Data Center (ISO 27001 Cyber Security) for storage via satellite communications. The Web-Access feature does not affect the stand-alone operation of the Bunker Metering System. The data stored in the Data Center can be accessed by the client (credentials required) but data cannot be modified. The Bunker Metering System has the below additional feature with the Web-Access upgrade:

• Totalizers for bunker quantity, mass flow, air index, etc.
• Real Time Monitoring of bunkering process parameters and set points
• Retrieve logged data from last bunkering operations
• Reports print out of metering profiles for purposes of comparison

    2.2 Scope of Installation The scope of installation is to perform all necessary tasks on board to install and deliver in operation the Bunker Metering System. These tasks include the sensors and Flow Computer connection to power supply and their interconnections. The cable will run from all sensors to Flow Computer location. It is our technical team to perform all electrical connections of the sensors, the Flow Computer, the mechanical installation of Flow Computer panel. The commissioning and startup of the Bunker Metering System is included and will be performed by our technicians. The installation does not include the piping modification for the mechanical installation of the Coriolis Mass Flow Meter(s) and any other instrumentation that should be connected on a pipe. A special attention to the size and weight of the Coriolis Mass Flow Meter should be given.     2.3 Site Survey A Site Survey is recommended before Bunker Metering System installation. The site survey scope is to check and advise for any piping modification, repairs, works and cable run that should take place before the Bunker Metering System installation. The survey also aims to highlight the location where the new Bunker Coriolis Mass Flow Meter(s) should be installed, a critical milestone of the Bunker Metering System. It is not recommended the site survey to be performed by the client. The site survey also aims to ensure an installation that will comply with OIML directives; a very specific piping for receive and / or supply fuel oil is required. Electropneumatic SA has a troubleshooting technical team and skilled service engineers that offers you on site solutions to your electrical problems or misses. Any task that is not included in the scope of Bunker Metering System quotation will be treated as a separate  service quotation.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]