An alternative method to load the chemical tankers had to be found that could be seen to be an improvement in terms of safety and efficiencies to the loading arms used at that time.

The outcome of the study was that a new, alternative solution that could meet the project key drivers was required. These drivers were:

• To have all grades available at each berth
• To allow simultaneous loading of all required products together meaning that loading duration was based on largest parcel and reduced overall time
• Increased pumping rates
• Removal of loading arms
• Demurrage cost reduction

A solution was developed by leading offshore engineering company Techflow Marine Ltd who designed a bespoke system to meet the project specific criteria outlined by and in association with Cepsa.

Techflow Marine’s system is made up of a bank of powered reels and hoses that enable the simultaneous loading of different products and enable increased pumping rates due to the smooth bore hose. In this way, loading times have been reduced by over 60%, meaning savings of around 90 days berth availability per year and 20% less use of the port facilities.

The decrease in docking times will lead to savings in fuel consumption for tankers of approximately 400 tonnes a year, in turn providing a reduction of around 1,500 tonnes in CO2 emissions a year. In addition the likelihood of spillages is kept to a minimum.

According to José Manuel Martínez, petrochemicals director at CEPSA: ‘We have improved safety and the economic viability of our business, boosting the reduction in greenhouse gases. In addition, we have avoided other alternatives such as extending the pier, requiring five times more investment’.

Learn more about Techflow Marine: System Launch Video | Operational Animation | Website