Tank Cleaning & Sludge Disposal (VLSFO/HFO)

Overview

When HFO/VLSFO tanks start causing operational friction—sediment build-up, wax/asphaltene deposits, transfer restrictions, unstable heating/viscosity control—waiting is usually what makes the next port call harder. CARGOWARD® provides fuel tank cleaning in Brazil with a practical, engineered approach: scope definition first, controlled execution next, and a documented close-out at the end.

Our engineering team and chemical engineering team define the cleaning logic (residue type, compatibility, sequence, risk controls). The shore gang executes the operation under shipboard safety management, with clear checkpoints and waste-stream discipline. Where the port workflow requires it, we coordinate slops/sludge reception and disposal interfaces with approved facilities and the relevant documentation trail (port-dependent).

To quote and mobilize quickly, send port/anchorage + ETA/ETD + tank list/volumes + residue symptoms/type + estimated slops/sludge volumes + any gas-free requirement. We revert with feasibility, sequence and a controlled plan aligned to your schedule.

What we do

HFO/VLSFO tank cleaning

• Residue breakdown and removal using compatible cleaning agents and controlled methods, selected by our chemical engineering team

• Practical mechanical steps where feasible and safe

• Controlled transfers and separation steps aligned to ship procedures and the available time window

Slops / sludge handling and port reception interface

• Segregation of waste streams (slops vs sludge) to keep the operation controlled

• Coordination of reception logistics with approved facilities (port-dependent availability)

• Documentation discipline supporting traceability of offload/reception chain (as required by local workflow)

Gas-free readiness interface (when required)

• Support to the gas-free preparation workflow and third-party certification interface, where applicable and feasible under port and vessel constraints

Where we operate

We support fuel tank cleaning in major Brazilian ports and, where permitted and feasible, at anchorage—always subject to local rules, terminal constraints and safety requirements. If your port is listed in our request form, it means we can assess feasibility and propose a controlled execution plan for that location.

Information required to mobilize

• Port/anchorage and operation mode (alongside / anchorage), plus local constraints

• ETA/ETD and working window

• Tank list (HFO/VLSFO storage/settling/service) and approximate volumes

• Residue type and symptoms (wax/asphaltene/sediment/sludge, transfer issues, etc.)

• Estimated slops/sludge quantities and any segregation expectations

• Whether gas-free certification is required, and any repair/inspection deadlines

• Vessel constraints (access, ventilation capability, heating system considerations, safety restrictions)

What you receive

• Scope confirmation and an engineered execution sequence (methods, controls, checkpoints)

• Slops/sludge handling plan and reception/disposal interface coordination (port-dependent)

• Close-out summary with scope performed, constraints, and evidence notes (as applicable)

• Readiness notes supporting subsequent operations (including gas-free workflow interface where applicable)

Notes and limitations

Port workflows differ

Reception availability, transfer constraints and documentation formats vary by port. We confirm the applicable workflow during scope confirmation.

Safety and access govern the method

Access, ventilation and shipboard safety requirements define what can be executed and how. Any limitations are flagged early to prevent surprises.