Microbial contamination in the marine industry and the blight known as diesel bug


Globally, pressure is growing to increase the percentage of bio-fuel in diesel and to reduce its sulphur content. These dual factors increase the potential for microbial growth (diesel bug) as sulphur curbs bug growth and bio-fuel attracts additional water. The marine industry is now faced with lower sulphur fuel across the board and the potential inclusion of bio-diesel, depending on the source of their fuel.


A A 58 | The Report • March 2018 • Issue 83


Fuel systems are a perfect habitat for micro-organisms to live and grow in, which is why it is so crucial for sensible husbandry and regular draining to prevent the build-up of sediments. These harmful micro- organisms, if undetected, can cause blocked fuel filters, wear injectors and stop engines. If they are left for long periods without treatment the ‘bugs’ can literally eat through stainless steel. Some manufacturers recommend complete fuel tank drains and cleaning on a periodic, prophylactic basis. There are, however, a number of proprietary tests on the market to determine the presence of microbial contamination.


The speed at which diesel bug can multiply is incredible. Microbiological contamination stems from water content in fuel: if you remove the water you remove the breeding ground. It is very difficult to remove all the water from a system, and the industry operators describe


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