Mass Flow Metering in Bunkering

Overview

Mass flow metering measures delivered fuel through an approved metering system rather than deriving delivery quantity solely from before-and-after tank calculations. It changes the evidence workflow, but it does not remove the need for disciplined procedures and records.

For maritime professionals, the useful question is not only “what does the term mean?” but “what evidence would show that the work was performed properly?” This guide therefore focuses on the practical link between the governing framework, onboard or cargo-side activity, and the records a competent professional would expect to see.

Key Points to Understand

Practical Process

The exact method must always be adapted to the vessel, cargo, company procedures, local rules and the scope of the assignment. A disciplined sequence helps keep evidence complete and prevents the work from drifting away from its objective.

1. Confirm the delivery is governed by the applicable MFM procedure.
2. Review meter/system identification and required pre-delivery checks.
3. Witness meter start conditions and transfer sequence.
4. Record interruptions, alarms or procedural deviations.
5. Capture final meter evidence and delivery documentation.
6. Reconcile the stated delivered quantity with the approved system record.

Common Mistakes

Most weak inspections, surveys and audits do not fail because the professional forgot a complicated formula. They fail because scope, evidence or follow-up became unclear. Watch especially for:

• Using obsolete references such as TR48:2015 as if they were current Singapore requirements.
• Treating a meter total as self-validating without checking required procedural evidence.
• Failing to document alarms or resets.

Practical Checklist

This is an IMT working checklist, not a substitute for the applicable convention, code, flag requirement, port rule, company procedure or contractual instruction.

• Current standard checked
• Approved system identified
• Start evidence
• Transfer events
• End evidence
• BDN reconciliation
• Anomalies recorded

Related Maritime Insights

• Bunker Shortage Disputes: Evidence and Prevention
• Bunker Survey Checklist
• Bunker Fuel Sampling Guide
• Bunker Delivery Note (BDN) Explained
• Marine Cargo Surveying Guide