mazut
russian origin heavy fuel oil
Mazut is a heavy, low-quality fuel oil used predominantly in generating plants and industrial applications. It is often considered a “dirty oil” due to its high viscosity and sulfur content. In regions like the former USSR and Far East, mazut is used for heating homes, whereas in Western countries, it is often blended into more conventional products such as diesel. Mazut is primarily produced in Russia and CIS countries, where it is manufactured to GOST specifications like GOST 10585-99. Its high energy value makes it suitable for large-scale boilers, though its shipping and handling require specialized equipment due to its thickness and the impact of viscosity on pumping.
Types of Mazut-100
The primary distinction among Mazut-100 grades is their sulfur content. Variants include Very Low Sulfur (≤0.5%), Low Sulfur (0.5–1.0%), Normal Sulfur (1.0–2.0%), and High Sulfur (2.0–3.5%). Very Low Sulfur mazut is rare, with limited production from low-sulfur crude feedstocks and restrictions on export from Russia due to state quotas. Low to high sulfur grades are more readily available, with higher prices often commanded by Russian-origin mazut due to its specifications.
Properties of Mazut-100
Mazut is the residue left after distilling lighter products like gasoline, kerosene, and diesel from crude oil. It is used for boiler fuel, distillate preparation, and even in manufacturing motor fuels, bitumen, and coke. Key properties include a density of 890–1,000 kg/m³, a heat of combustion ranging from 38 to 42 megajoules per kilogram, and sulfur content of 0.8–3.5%. For specific applications like gas turbines, mazut must have extremely low ash content to prevent corrosion and maintain performance.
Alternative Fuel Oils
Mazut has equivalents like Fuel Oil CST 180 and CST 380, with specifications that vary in terms of viscosity, pour point, flash point, sulfur content, and ash percentage. These variants are tailored for industrial and marine applications, with CST 380 having the highest viscosity and sulfur content among them. Such fuels are used when cost efficiency outweighs environmental concerns or operational complexity.
Specifications and Challenges
Mazut's composition and handling requirements present challenges. High viscosity necessitates heating for storage and pumping, with pour points ranging up to 32°C. The high sulfur content contributes to environmental issues, while impurities like vanadium and silicon can damage equipment. Despite these challenges, mazut remains a cost-effective option for industrial-scale energy production, particularly in regions with limited refining infrastructure. Mazut’s role is vital in industries that prioritize energy density and cost over environmental considerations, making it a key player in certain global markets. However, its usage is constrained by logistical, environmental, and regulatory challenges, especially in regions with stringent emissions standards.