Which Type of Ship Fender Do You Need?
Marine fenders — also referred to as ship fenders or heavy duty fenders — are essential components in maritime operations. Their role is to absorb kinetic energy during berthing, thereby protecting both vessels and quay structures from damage. Selecting the right type depends on vessel size, berthing frequency, environmental conditions, and available mounting space.
Below is an overview of commonly used fender types from the FenderTec product range, with typical applications and technical considerations.
Types of Marine Fenders in Port and Vessel Applications
D-Fenders for Small Vessels and Berth Edges
D-Fenders are among the most widely used fender profiles. They are extruded from solid rubber and available in both hollow and solid forms. Due to their compact form and ease of installation, D-fenders are often mounted on the hulls of smaller workboats, tugboats, pilot vessels, and on the edges of jetties and narrow quays. They offer reliable protection in high-contact areas and require minimal maintenance.
Cylindrical Fenders for General Purpose Berthing
Cylindrical fenders are highly versatile and commonly used in general port infrastructure. Their geometry allows for uniform stress distribution and they can be installed both horizontally and vertically. These fenders are suitable for quay walls, dolphins, and mixed-traffic berths, making them a standard choice for ports handling a variety of vessel types.
Yokohama-Type Pneumatic Fenders for Offshore and STS Use
Yokohama-type pneumatic fenders are designed for heavy-duty use in ship-to-ship (STS) transfers and offshore operations. These floating fenders are filled with air and optionally protected with a chain and tyre net. They comply with ISO 17357 and are commonly used by tankers, LNG carriers, and naval vessels where high energy absorption and low hull pressure are critical. Their mobility and minimal installation requirements make them ideal for flexible berthing operations.
Keyhole Fenders for Tugboats and Workboats
Keyhole fenders are tailored for bow and stern protection on tugboats and port service craft. Their unique profile provides high deflection capacity and effective energy absorption at specific impact points. These fenders are often installed flush to a vessel’s structure and are particularly suited to areas where conventional fenders may not fit.
Delta Fenders for Quay Wall Installations
Delta fenders offer a triangular profile that provides excellent grip and energy absorption on sloped or uneven quay surfaces. These fenders are suitable for use along quay walls or on berths where varying contact angles occur. Their structural integrity and ease of mounting make them suitable for medium-sized vessels in standard port operations.
Making the Right Selection
Choosing the correct marine fender involves evaluating:
- The vessel’s dimensions and displacement
- The typical berthing environment (e.g. tidal variation, wave exposure)
- The required energy absorption and allowable reaction force
- Available installation space and maintenance access
Typical Use Overview
| Vessel Type | Suitable Fender Types |
|---|---|
| Small service vessels | D-Fenders |
| Tugboats and workboats | Keyhole Fenders |
| General cargo berths | Cylindrical Fenders, Delta Fenders |
| Offshore / STS operations | Yokohama Pneumatic Fenders |
If you’re unsure which ship fender is appropriate for your specific application, we recommend contacting our technical support team. They can provide tailored advice based on vessel specifications, environmental factors, and operational constraints.
