Reliable LNG bunkering in winter – how Rohe ensures smooth deliveries

The Finnish winter sets its own requirements for bunkering, the process of supplying fuel to ships. Through careful planning, foresight, and professional expertise, LNG deliveries can be conducted safely from terminals as well as via truck-to-ship transfers.

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LNG winter bunkering in brief:

• Winter creates the main challenges for truck-to-ship bunkering, while fixed terminal bunkering is largely unaffected by weather conditions.

• Truck bunkering is impacted by varying ice and weather conditions which can cause changes to schedules and operational plans.

• In cold and icy conditions, the condition and careful handling of transport and bunkering equipment are critical, as there is no allowance for additional thawing or installation work.

• Successful winter bunkering requires precise planning, clear communication and well‑maintained equipment suitable for winter conditions.

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Demand for flexible and reliable bunkering solutions continues year‑round, as the use of LNG and Bio-LNG as marine fuel has grown rapidly. Tightening maritime emission regulations will increase the need even further.

Rohe supplies Bio‑LNG and LNG for maritime use through truck deliveries across Finland as well as directly from the Hamina LNG terminal. Truck-to-ship bunkering enables LNG deliveries also to ports without fixed terminal infrastructure

What are the most common winter challenges in LNG bunkering?

Winter conditions specifically challenge truck-to-ship bunkering, whereas fixed terminal bunkering operates similarly regardless of the weather.

Truck-to-ship bunkering challenges in the winter include:

• Rapidly changing weather and ice conditions can cause delays in ports, maritime traffic and truck transport.

• Schedules may change quickly and demand ongoing planning.

• Bunkering arrangements may change, which requires advance planning and contingency plans also in terms of equipment.

• Compressed air-operated valves and the technical systems of transport equipment can sometimes be prone to freezing. The importance of maintenance is especially emphasized in severe cold conditions.

• Ice always forms on hoses and connections during bunkering. In winter conditions, assembling, disconnecting and replacing the required connections can occasionally be challenging.

How do winter conditions affect LNG offloading?

Severe cold and windy port conditions create more demanding conditions for LNG offloading, meaning the transfer of LNG from truck to ship. The LNG truck driver works alone or together with another driver if the delivery includes two or more truckloads.

Truck-to-ship bunkering requires proper tools in winter conditions, as connections, seals and nuts react to cold and may stiffen or freeze in place. The valves and automatic valves of the equipment operate using compressed air, and moisture poses a risk of freezing and operational malfunctions.

How to ensure successful bunkering in winter?

Based on our experience at Rohe, successful winter bunkering is primarily built on careful planning, preparedness and clear communication with both the ship and the port.

Fast and straightforward communication enables plans to be updated quickly when needed. We also thoroughly review all pre-planned procedures together with the ships and the port in advance.

Cold weather, wind and ice place specific demands on equipment. Tools suitable for winter conditions and the necessary extension hoses must be available to ensure that bunkering can be carried out safely, efficiently and without delays even in winter.

The high expertise of the truck drivers is also one key factor in successful bunkering. Our transport partner, Simeon, places strong emphasis on drivers’ technical training and practical expertise.

This is how Rohe ensures smooth bunkering also in winter:

• Thorough pre-planning and joint review of plans with the ship and the port.

• Clear communication with all parties, enabling rapid response to changes.

• Equipment and extension hoses suitable for winter conditions.

• Highly skilled drivers with strong technical expertise.

• Learning from experience and continuously developing operations together with partners.