How to Choose the Right Pneumatic Fender for Different Types of Vessels
Nanjing Deers is a professional manufacturer and supplier of marine fender systems. Among various fender types, pneumatic fenders stand out for their high performance and versatility in modern marine applications.
Advantages of Pneumatic Fenders
Compared with conventional solid-type fenders (such as waste tires or solid rubber fenders), pneumatic fenders offer several significant advantages.
High energy absorption
To minimize impact damage
Low reaction force
Low reaction force acting on the vessel hull
Superior flexibility and durability
Adaptable to various berthing conditions, long service life.
Easy installation and maintenance
Reduce operating costs and time
Because of these advantages, pneumatic fenders are widely used for large oil tankers, LNG carriers, offshore platforms, shipyards, naval bases, and other heavy-duty berthing facilities.
Pneumatic Fender Selection Guide
Select the right pneumatic fender based on vessel type and tonnage to ensure safe and efficient berthing.
1. Pneumatic Fender Selection for Small and Medium-Sized Vessels
| Vessel Tonnage (T) | Recommended Fender Size D×L (m) | Typical Vessel Type |
|---|---|---|
| 50 | 0.5*1.0 | Fishing boat |
| 100 | 0.7*1.5~1.0*1.5 | Fishing boat |
| 200 | 1.0*1.5~1.2*2.0 | Fishing boat, Tugboat |
| 300-500 | 1.2*2.0~1.5*2.5 | Fishing boat, Tugboat |
| 1000 | 1.5*2.5~1.5*3.0 | Tugboat, Cargo vessel |
| 3000 | 2.0*3.0~2.0*3.5 | Deep-sea trawler, Cargo vessel |
| 10000 | 2.0*3.5~2.5*4.0 | Cargo vessel |
For small and medium-sized vessels such as fishing boats, tugboats, and coastal transport vessels, compact pneumatic fenders are ideal. They provide sufficient energy absorption while maintaining a lightweight and easy-to-handle structure, suitable for flexible operations and frequent berthing.
2. Pneumatic Fender Selection for Large Vessels
| Vessel (DWT) | Approach Velocity (m/s) | Energy Absorption (KN·M) | Fender Size D×L (m) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 200,000 | 0.15 | 1890 | 3.3 × 6.5 |
| 150,000 | 0.15 | 1417 | 3.3 × 6.5 |
| 100,000 | 0.15 | 945 | 2.5 × 5.0 |
| 50,000 | 0.18 | 680 | 2.5 × 5.5 |
| 40,000 | 0.20 | 672 | 2.5 × 5.5 |
| 30,000 | 0.22 | 609 | 2.5 × 4.0 |
| 20,000 | 0.25 | 525 | 2.5 × 4.0 |
| 15000 | 0.26 | 425 | 2.5 × 4.0 |
For large vessels and ocean-going tankers, the fender must be able to absorb high impact energy during berthing. Larger sizes such as 2.5×5.5 m or 3.3×6.5 m provide excellent protection and ensure safe, stable docking operations even under heavy wind and wave conditions.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Fender
When selecting a pneumatic fender, several important parameters should be evaluated:
- Energy Absorption (GEA)
The total amount of energy the fender can absorb during vessel contact.
- Berthing Distance
The clearance required between vessels or between vessel and dock (maximum and minimum).
- Reaction Force (R)
The force transmitted to the vessel or quay wall.
- Environmental Conditions
Wind, current, and wave intensity that affect berthing dynamics.
Conclusion
Selecting the right pneumatic fender is essential for protecting both vessels and port infrastructure. By understanding vessel type, berthing conditions, and environmental factors, operators can ensure efficient, safe, and long-lasting fender performance.
As a trusted supplier, Nanjing Deers offers a full range of pneumatic fenders designed and tested to meet international standards. Whether for ship-to-ship (STS) or ship-to-dock (STD) operations, our fenders deliver reliable protection for every berthing scenario.