Introduction to Inflatable Fenders Part 2

Core Advantage

Compared with traditional fenders (solid rubber, steel fenders), the advantages of inflatable rubber fenders are significant:

1. High energy absorption and low reaction force: By absorbing impact energy of up to several thousand kilojoule through compressed air, the reaction force is only 1/3 to 1/2 of that of traditional fenders, protecting the hull and dock structure from damage.

2. Self-floating and adaptability: More than 50% of the fender's volume floats on the water surface, automatically adjusting its height with the tide. Even when in inclined contact, it can still maintain a stable buffering effect.

3. Lightweight and easy installation: It weighs only 10% to 20% of solid fenders of the same specification and can be quickly fixed by cables or chains, making it suitable for docks with large tidal ranges or deep-sea areas.

4. Corrosion resistance and long service life: The outer rubber layer is made of acid and alkali resistant and UV-resistant formula, and the sheath is treated with hot-dip galvanizing, which can adapt to harsh Marine environments and has a service life of more than 10 years.

5. Economy: The manufacturing cost is lower than that of steel fenders, and the maintenance cost is low, with no need for frequent replacement.

Application Scenarios

The application fields of inflatable rubber fenders are extensive, including:

1. Large vessels: such as oil tankers, liquefied gas carriers, container ships, etc., need to cope with the impact energy of high-tonnage vessels.

2. Marine engineering: Offshore oil platforms, floating storage and offloading vessels (FPsos), etc., need to adapt to complex sea conditions.

3. Ports and docks: Docks, military ports and temporary berths with large tidal ranges rely on their self-floating characteristics.

4. Special environments: Anti-collision requirements under extreme conditions such as polar vessels and deep-sea operations.