Introduction

Pneumatic fenders are essential in today’s busy ports. Whether you’re operating oil tankers, cargo ships, or offshore platforms, the right fender keeps your vessel and dock safe. At NANHAI, we specialize in providing reliable marine fender systems. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key steps to choose, calculate, and install pneumatic fenders with confidence.

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What Are Pneumatic Fenders?

Pneumatic fenders (also called Yokohama fenders) are air-filled marine bumpers. They float between ships and docks, absorbing collision energy to prevent damage. Designed for flexibility, they adjust to tide levels and vessel movements.

At NANHAI, we supply:

• Sling-type pneumatic fenders – Light, cost-effective
• Chain & Tire Net (CTN) fenders – Durable for harsh conditions
• Custom sizes & solutions for unique mooring environments

Step 1: Choosing the Right Pneumatic Fender

Know Your Vessel Type
The size and type of ship determine the energy absorption needed. For example, a bulk carrier needs a different fender than a passenger ferry.

Understand Your Dock Conditions
Consider tidal range, wave action, quay height, and mooring frequency.

Choose by Performance Needs and Budget
NANHAI offers both high-performance and economical options to fit any marine operation. All our fenders comply with ISO standards.

Tip from NANHAI engineers: Always choose a fender rated for your worst-case berthing scenario — not just the average.

Step 2: Calculating Fender Size and Energy Requirements

Key factors to calculate:

• Energy Absorption (EA) – How much energy the fender must absorb
• Reaction Force (RF) – The force pushed back on the ship or dock

Example:
For a 40,000 DWT vessel with 0.15 m/s approach speed:
→ Required EA = 120 kNm
→ Recommended fender: NANHAI 2.5m x 5.5m pneumatic fender (EA ≥ 132 kNm)

Use NANHAI’s free selection chart or contact our support team for a quick match.

Step 3: Installing Your Pneumatic Fender

Pre-installation checklist:

• Inspect fender for leaks or surface damage
• Check internal air pressure (50 or 80 kPa standard)
• Prepare mounting accessories (chains, shackles, ropes)

Installation methods by NANHAI:

• Floating installation – Attach to mooring rings on quay
• Hanging installation – Use chains and tire nets for CTN-type
• Custom systems – Designed to fit offshore or ship-to-ship operations

Positioning tips:

• Match height to the ship’s draft
• Leave space between the fender and the wall
• Use multiple fenders for longer berthing faces

Care and Maintenance

NANHAI recommends:

• Weekly pressure checks
• Regular inspection of chains and tires
• Storage in shaded, dry areas when not in use
• Re-inflation if pressure drops over time

With proper care, NANHAI fenders last 10+ years even in high-use ports.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Using undersized fenders
Ignoring pressure ratings
Installing without aan lignment check
Skipping regular maintenance

Why Choose NANHAI Pneumatic Fenders?

• ISO : certified
• High-quality rubber and reinforcement
• Custom solutions for ports, terminals, and naval operations
• Fast delivery and technical support
• Trusted by global customers in over 40 countries

Conclusion

Choosing the right pneumatic fender doesn’t have to be difficult. With help from NANHAI, you get expert advice, certified products, and ongoing support. Let us protect your vessel — one fender at a time.

Need help choosing?
Contact NANHAI today for a free consultation and quote!

FAQ

How do I choose the right size pneumatic fender?
Check your vessel’s tonnage, berthing speed, and dock type. Use NANHAI’s fender chart or ask our engineers.

Can pneumatic fenders be reused after deflation?
Yes! NANHAI pneumatic fenders are fully reusable and easy to transport.

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How often should I check the pressure?
At least once a week. NANHAI fenders come with built-in valves for easy pressure monitoring.

Fenders are often overlooked but are vital in maritime operations. These unassuming devices play a pivotal role in protecting vessels and infrastructure—effectively cushioning the impact of berthing, mooring, and docking. This guide will cover their diverse types, applications in different marine environments, and the essential considerations for selecting the right fender system.

Functions and Purpose of Fenders

Fenders play a pivotal role in marine construction, serving multiple functions that are crucial for safeguarding vessels, structures, and ensuring the overall safety and efficiency of maritime operations.

Protection of Vessels and Structures

One of the foremost functions of fenders is to provide essential protection to both vessels and the structures they come into contact with—including piers, docks, quays, and other infrastructure. This protective function serves several important purposes:

• Minimizing impact damage: Fenders act as a buffer, absorbing the energy generated during vessel berthing or mooring. This energy absorption prevents direct collisions between vessels and structures, significantly reducing the risk of damage.
• Preserving vessel integrity: By absorbing and dissipating kinetic energy, fenders protect the hulls and superstructures of vessels from structural damage and deformations that could compromise their seaworthiness.
• Extending infrastructure lifespan: Fenders also safeguard the longevity of port and harbor infrastructure by reducing wear-and-tear caused by repeated vessel impacts—garnering lower maintenance costs and increased operational efficiency over time.

Energy Absorption and Dispersion

Fenders are engineered to efficiently absorb and disperse kinetic energy, which is generated when vessels approach berthing facilities or during mooring. This critical function serves the following purposes:

• Energy dissipation: Fenders dissipate the kinetic energy of a vessel’s movement by deforming and rebounding, thus reducing the impact forces transmitted to the vessel and the structure. This controlled energy dissipation prevents sudden jolts and potential structural failures.
• Enhancing safety: By gradually slowing down and dispersing the energy, fenders contribute to a safer and more controlled berthing process—protecting crew, cargo, and the vessel itself from sudden and violent impacts.

Types of Fenders

Understanding the various types of fenders available is essential for selecting the right fender system to meet the specific needs of a marine construction project. Each type of fender has its unique advantages and limitations, and choosing the appropriate fender type is crucial to ensure the safety and efficiency of a project.

Rubber Fenders

Rubber fenders are among the most widely employed fender types due to their versatility and effectiveness in absorbing and dissipating kinetic energy. For example, in busy container ports, cylindrical rubber fenders efficiently cushion and slow down massive cargo vessels as they make contact with the pier—preventing damage to both the ships and the terminal infrastructure.

They come in several shapes, including:

• Cylindrical fenders: Cylindrical rubber fenders are characterized by their simple, cylindrical shape. They are often used in areas with moderate tidal variations and vessel sizes. Cylindrical fenders distribute forces evenly, making them suitable for various applications like marinas and ferry terminals.
• D-shaped fenders: D-shaped rubber fenders have a flat back and a semi-circular front, resembling the letter “D.” This design allows them to efficiently protect vessels and structures while also serving as a bumper during berthing operations.
• W fenders: W fenders, as the name suggests, feature a distinctive “W” shape. This design provides excellent energy absorption and dispersion capabilities, making them ideal for larger vessels and areas with high tidal fluctuations.

Selection Criteria for Fenders

At the very least—the selection criteria for fenders should include design considerations, materials and durability, and maintenance requirements.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Fenders

The following factors should be considered during the fender selection process:

• Vessel size and type: The size and type of vessels that will be berthing or mooring at a facility are paramount in fender selection. Different vessels generate varying levels of kinetic energy during berthing, necessitating fenders that can adequately absorb and dissipate this energy.
• Berth configuration and conditions: The layout and configuration of the berthing area—including water depth, tidal variations, and available space—influence the choice of fenders. For instance, tight berths with limited maneuvering space may require fenders that offer precise protection.
• Impact energy calculation: Calculating the expected impact energy during vessel berthing is crucial. This involves analyzing factors such as vessel speed, weight, and angle of approach. Fender systems must be selected to match or exceed the calculated energy to ensure safety.
• Environmental factors: Environmental considerations—including wind, wave action, and water currents—can affect fender performance. Fenders must be chosen to withstand these conditions and maintain their effectiveness in adverse weather.

Fender Design Considerations

The design of the fender system itself plays a significant role in its suitability for a specific application. Key design considerations include:

• Type and shape: Different fender types—such as cylindrical, D-shaped, or cone fenders—have unique designs optimized for specific functions. Choosing the right type is essential for effective energy absorption.
• Mounting and attachment: Fenders can be installed in various ways, including fixed or floating configurations. The choice depends on the berthing facility’s design and requirements.
• Deflection capability: Fender systems should have the appropriate deflection characteristics to accommodate vessel movement and impact without exceeding their limits.

Materials and Durability

The materials from which fenders are constructed significantly impact their longevity and performance. Considerations include:

• Rubber quality: For rubber fenders, the type and quality of rubber used are critical. High-quality rubber compounds enhance durability and resistance to environmental factors.
• Reinforcement: Fenders may incorporate reinforcing materials such as steel or nylon to improve their structural integrity. The choice of reinforcement material should align with the intended application.
• Corrosion resistance: In corrosive environments, such as saltwater, selecting materials that resist corrosion, like stainless steel components, is essential to prolong fender life.

Maintenance Requirements

Fenders, like any other equipment, require regular maintenance to ensure their continued effectiveness and longevity. Maintenance considerations include:

• Inspection and monitoring: Scheduled inspections to check for signs of wear, damage, or degradation are essential. This helps identify and address issues promptly.
• Cleaning: Fenders should be kept clean and free of debris that could affect their performance.
• Repair and replacement: When fenders show signs of significant wear or damage, timely repair or replacement is crucial to maintain safety and operational efficiency.

Description

The ShibataFenderTeam Group is the leading international fender manufacturer with 60+ years of group experience in fender production, +145,000 fenders in service, and 100 years of experience in the production of rubber products. They are headquartered in Germany with regional offices in the US, Europe, and Asia, supported by a large network of well-established local representatives on six continents.  As a specialist for customized fender solutions, they focus on vertical integration with in-house manufacturing and full-scale testing.

SFT offers the full range of marine fender products, from simple rubber profiles up to highly engineered systems as well as accessories and fixings. Decades of experience have gained them a reputation as a dependable partner in the international port, harbor, and waterways market.

Description

Schuyler Companies is the leader in the marine fender business primarily serving the inland river operations industry. This includes all types of vessel fenders, as well as a unique array of dock fender solutions geared towards the tough barge berthing environment. Our fenders are specifically designed and crafted to be extremely durable under harsh marine conditions and our repeat clients are good evidence of the quality of our products.

Schuyler Companies’ product line includes many sizes and types of marine fenders to suit most applications. From our custom designed laminated rubber fenders that are manufactured from 100% recycled truck tire treads, to our line of extruded and molded type fenders, we have many options to offer our clients when determining their fendering needs. We understand the importance of our products for vessels and docks and work hard to ensure that our clients get the best quality, longest lasting fender at the most affordable price possible.