Pneumatic fenders are important for ships, docks, and other water structures. They keep them safe when the boat is anchored or docked. There are also various types of pneumatic fenders, each of which meets specific operational needs. For example, chain and tire mesh fenders are reinforced with a sturdy mesh to provide extra protection and a longer lifespan. Sling fenders, on the other hand, are lighter and easier to install, and are the most popular type.
Foam-filled fenders are another option. They have a sturdy core, which makes them last longer. On the other hand, portable pneumatic fenders are perfect for short-term or emergency use. Every pneumatic fender is designed to effectively absorb impact energy. They reduce the forces transmitted between the boat and the dock structure, ensuring everyone’s safety during operations and limiting damage.
Pneumatic Fender
A Yokohama fender or pneumatic fender is a strong, durable rubber fender that is filled with high-pressure air. It deflates easily, so it can be moved and reinstalled elsewhere with ease.
Pneumatic fenders have two different pressures inside, so they can work in many other situations. They are manufactured by ISO 17357-1:2014. Pneumatic fenders are manufactured in several different ways, each with its advantages. The most common methods are moulding and wrapping.
It is important to note that you should distinguish between pneumatic fenders and marine airbags. Marine airbags are generally used for launching ships, while pneumatic fenders are used for other purposes.
Pneumatic fenders range in width from 500 mm to 4500 mm and in length from 1000 mm to 12000 mm. In addition to the yokohama fenders standard sizes, you can also have them custom-made to suit your needs. Regardless of the size, you can choose between sling and mesh pneumatic fenders.
Features of Pneumatic Fenders
- Many ships use pneumatic fenders for ship-to-ship, remote berthing, inclined berthing, and naval activities.
- Compared to other types of fenders, pneumatic fenders have less reaction force on the ship and the quay structure.
- Pneumatic fenders can respond well to changes in high tides.
- They can also exert lower mooring forces even in bad weather.
- In most cases, pneumatic fenders are the most economical option.
- Pneumatic fenders are quick and easy to install, making them ideal for many situations.
Applications for Pneumatic Fenders
- Oil and Gas Tankers
- Fast Ferries and Aluminum Vessels
- Temporary and Permanent Installations
- Rapid Response and Emergency
- Used in naval establishments
Different Types of Pneumatic Fender
The ISO 17357-1:2014 standard recognizes two main types of pneumatic fenders. These are Type I (mesh type) and Type II (sling type). Which type is best suited to a particular situation depends on the purpose of the fender and the needs of the facility.
Chain-link Tire Net (CTN) Type
For net fenders, a chain-link, wire mesh, or fibre mesh can be used to cover the net. In most cases, these nets use old tires and rubber covers for added safety. The only exception is the fibre mesh, which only has a rubber cover. In addition, the chain-link net is more resistant to corrosion, while the wire mesh is lighter and easier to repair.
Features and Benefits:
- Made from used tires, a small carbon footprint
- Easy and quick to install
- Long service life, hard-wearing
- Protects the hull from damage
- Thanks to the sturdy fenders, sharp objects cannot cut or puncture them
Aircraft Tire Chain Network (HPF-ACN)
Unlike chain tire nets, aircraft tire chain nets usually use aircraft tires instead of car tires. This allows for a greater isolation distance while providing better protection for the pneumatic fender.
Features and Benefits:
- Instead of using standard tires, it uses heavy and larger aircraft tires
- It has a longer service life than ordinary chain nets
- Lower maintenance costs
Application:
- For transferring from one ship to another
- Can be used as a temporary or emergency solution to protect the system
- Can be used on fast ferries, tankers, gas carriers, and bulk carriers
Grey Body, Grey Harnessing (HPF-GBGH)
Pneumatic fenders with a grey body and grey rope are used when the ship requires a fender that leaves no marks at all. This is because they reduce the chance of staining or scratching the hull on contact. This saves on the cost of painting the ship’s deck. As a result, this can avoid repeated painting, thus saving costs.
Features and Benefits:
- Can be used in situations where a completely non-marking effect is required
- Does not stain the hull
- Saves on the cost of painting the hull
- Very useful for cruise ship docks and military ships
Grey Harnessing (HPF-GH)
This pneumatic fender has a special chain mesh mooring line and is usually equipped with a non-marking grey or white tire and casing. Pneumatic fenders with a grey body and grey mooring lines are often used when ships require completely non-marking fenders. This is because they reduce the chance of soiling or scratching the hull on contact.
Features and Benefits:
- This is useful for cruise terminals and warships
- Can be used for unmarked ship-to-ship transfers
Sling-type (HPF-SB) Pneumatic Fender
As the sling pneumatic fender does not have a webbing, it has a thick outer layer of rubber. This protects it from wear and tear and extends its lifespan. Thanks to this design feature, the chains do not come into contact with the ship or the quay, thus reducing the risk of damage.
In addition, the sling fenders are easy to install and require little maintenance. On the other hand, they can also be used in areas with high or low tidal ranges and maintain sufficient space between the hull and the structure.
Features and Benefits:
- No mesh harness, so a thicker outer rubber layer
- Minimizes the risk of damage during mooring
- Easy to install, low maintenance
- Widely used in the military and on cruise ships
- They are ideal for passenger ships
- For boats with sensitive hull structures, sling fenders are the best choice
Sling-type Grey Body (HPF-SG)
The grey mooring fenders are identical to the standard mooring fenders in every respect. In addition, they have a dark rubber coating on the outside for a non-marking effect. As a rule, HPF-SG is available in white and grey. They are quicker to install and less expensive to maintain.
Features and Benefits:
- Can be used for non-marking applications
- Easy to install, low maintenance
- Most widely used in naval applications (non-marking applications)
- Can be used on passenger ships and in applications where the fender cannot be allowed to wear
Summary
To ensure safe and smooth maritime activities, it is self-evident to understand the importance of various pneumatic fenders. Each pneumatic fender has a specific purpose. For example, if you need to deal with difficult work, then you can choose a sturdy chain and tire mesh fender. If you need a lightweight fender that is easy to install, then you can choose a pneumatic fender.
Thus, we can choose the right pneumatic fender according to our needs. This can protect boats, docks, and other marine structures from damage during berthing and mooring. Choosing the right pneumatic fender not only improves safety but also ensures a long service life.
