What Are The Different Types Of Rubber Fenders?
Mar 15, 2024
Different Types Of Rubber Fender
Rubber fenders, serving as crucial buffer devices between ships and docks, as well as between ships themselves, require comprehensive consideration of various types, shapes, and application scenarios in their selection and usage. This paper will specifically address the different types, shapes, application scenarios, and selection considerations of rubber fenders.
Rubber Fender Types: By Type
There are many types of rubber fender, according to its structural characteristics and functional use, can be roughly divided into solid rubber fender, floating rubber fender, chain rubber fender and compressed rubber fender.
Solid Rubber Fender (Industry Standard: HG / T 2866-2016)
with its stable structure, good wear resistance characteristics, widely used in all kinds of docks, bridge piers and ships against collision protection.
Floating Rubber Fender (Industry Standard: ISO 17357-1:2014)
according to the different internal buffer medium, can be divided into inflatable rubber fender and filled rubber fender. The inflatable rubber fender uses compressed air as the medium to consume collision energy through compressed air, and the internal buffer medium of the filled rubber fender is mainly closed-hole foaming material, such as foaming EVA, foaming polyurethane and so on. It has the characteristics of large buoyancy, convenient installation and strong adaptability, and is often used for floating facilities, pontoon bridge, floating wharf and other occasions.
Floating rubber fender is a new type of fender equipment, compared with solid rubber fender, its main characteristics are: large compression deformation, large energy absorption, small reverse force, self-floating, easy to install, etc. It is usually used in ship to ship (ship to ship), ship to dock (ship to wharf) barge and docking; due to its self-floating characteristics. Among them, the padded rubber fender is especially suitable for applications in harsh environments, such as free maintenance and long life, such as offshore drilling platform.


Rubber Fender Types: By Shape
The shapes of rubber fender board are different, including cylinder, semicircular (D), roller, arch (V), Super cell, cone, etc. Each shape of the fender board has a unique energy absorption characteristics and applicable scenarios.
Cylinder type rubber fender
The cylinder type rubber fender, renowned for its exceptional performance and extensive application range, has emerged as a crucial tool for safeguarding ships and wharves. Its effectiveness remains unaffected by the size of the ship, making it particularly well-suited for use on older wharves.
Half-Round (Type D) Rubber Fender
The D type fender is extensively utilized in various terminals and ships due to its stable structure and effective energy absorption. It offers a moderate reaction force and higher energy absorption compared to cylindrical types, while also being convenient to install. Its small bottom width makes it particularly suitable for installation on frame wharves and ship sides.
Roller Fender
Roller rubber fender: The roller rubber fender, known for its strong adaptability, high energy absorption, easy installation and maintenance, as well as environmentally friendly raw materials, plays a crucial role in port terminal anti-collision equipment. It provides a reliable guarantee for the safety of ships and docks.
Arch (V type) rubber fender
The arch (V type) rubber fender offers high energy absorption, moderate reaction force, easy installation and disassembly, wide application, and minimal compression deformation. It can be customized to meet specific requirements. However, it is important to note that the suitability of the arch (type V) rubber fender may be limited in certain circumstances, such as for ships like tankers. When selecting and using this fender, consideration should be given to the actual situation.
Super cell rubber fender
The Super Cell rubber fender exhibits outstanding characteristics such as low reaction force, strong energy absorption, minimal surface pressure, excellent stability, and large deformation. It is suitable for various applications, particularly in large ports and docks. This type of fender effectively meets the berthing requirements of vessels of all sizes and ensures the safety of both ships and docks. Additionally, the installation and maintenance of Super Cell rubber fenders are relatively convenient, enhancing their practicality in real-world scenarios.
Cone rubber fender
The cone rubber fender is widely utilized for berthing protection at various docks due to its high stability, high energy absorption performance, adaptability, durability, and safety.
When selecting rubber fenders, it is crucial to comprehensively consider the specific requirements of ships or wharf facilities, as well as the structural design, shape, and material selection of each type of fender. For example, heavy-haul ships and large docks require fenders with elevated bearing capacity and energy absorption capabilities, while floating facilities necessitate consideration of buoyancy and ease of installation. Additionally, attention should be given to wear resistance, aging resistance, and environmental conditions to ensure optimal performance and a stable service life.











