What type of fuel is most commonly used in marine diesel engines?

Marine diesel engines predominantly utilize Marine Diesel Oil (MDO) or Intermediate Fuel Oil (IFO) due to their specific design and operational needs. These fuels are formulated to meet the requirements of large marine engines, which demand a certain viscosity and energy content for efficient combustion and performance under heavy loads.

MDO is a blend of gas oil and marine fuel oil, providing a cleaner burn and reduced emissions, while IFO, which is typically a lower viscosity blend, allows for more economical operations in larger ships. These fuels undergo stringent quality control to ensure stability and performance during long voyages and demanding operational conditions, making them the preferred choice for marine applications.

In contrast, gasoline is not suitable for diesel engines, jet fuel is designed for aviation turbine engines, and while biofuels can be used in some engines, they are not yet the standard for most marine diesel applications, particularly in larger vessels where MDO and IFO are the industry norms.