Yokohama Rubber Fender High Energy Absorption Low Reaction Force Long Service Life
Description
The Yokohama Rubber Fender is a high-performance pneumatic fender designed to protect vessels and port structures during berthing and mooring operations. It uses compressed air as a medium to absorb collision energy, minimizing impact forces between ships and quay walls. The structure consists of multiple layers of reinforced rubber and fabric cords, providing flexibility, durability, and stable performance under heavy load conditions. Its floating nature allows it to adjust automatically with tidal changes, ensuring reliable contact and optimal protection in all sea states.
( Case Study: A major Asian container port experienced frequent hull damages and quay wall repairs due to inadequate solid fenders. Hongruntong Marine supplied Yokohama-type pneumatic fenders with a 2.5 m diameter and 50 kPa design pressure. After installation, collision forces during berthing reduced by over 35 percent. The fenders maintained consistent air pressure, showed no structural deformation, and significantly extended the maintenance interval. The port reported a 40 percent decrease in hull damage claims and improved docking safety, demonstrating the efficiency and reliability of Yokohama fenders in heavy-duty operations. )
Specifications
Place of Origin | China |
Brand Name | Yokohama Rubber Fender |
Material | Natural Rubber |
Color | Black |
Application |
In ports with extreme tidal variations Ship-to-ship lightering operations Oil Gas (typically FSRU) Temporary berthing |
Feature | Heat Resistance |
Sample | Usually free |
Production Method | Moulding |
Temperature | -40℃~300℃ |
Packing | Pallets |
Lead time | 7-14 days |
Diameter x Length [mm] |
50kPa Performance Data |
80kPa Performance Data |
||||
Hull Pressure at GEA / kN / m2 |
Reaction Force / kN |
Energy Absorption / kNm |
Hull Pressure at GEA / kN / m2 |
Reaction Force / kN |
Energy Absorption / kNm |
|
1000 x 1500 | 122 | 182 | 32 | 160 | 239 | 45 |
1000 x 2000 | 132 | 257 | 45 | 174 | 338 | 63 |
1200 x 2000 | 126 | 297 | 63 | 166 | 390 | 88 |
1350 x 2500 | 130 | 427 | 102 | 170 | 561 | 142 |
1500 x 3000 | 153 | 579 | 153 | 174 | 761 | 214 |
1700 x 3000 | 128 | 639 | 191 | 168 | 840 | 267 |
2000 x 3500 | 128 | 875 | 308 | 168 | 1150 | 430 |
2500 x 4000 | 137 | 1381 | 663 | 180 | 1815 | 925 |
2500 x 5500 | 148 | 2019 | 943 | 195 | 2653 | 1317 |
3300 x 4500 | 130 | 1884 | 1175 | 171 | 2476 | 1640 |
3300 x 6500 | 146 | 3015 | 1814 | 191 | 3961 | 2532 |
3300 x 10600 | 158 | 5257 | 3067 | 208 | 6907 | 4281 |
4500 x 9000 | 146 | 5747 | 4752 | 192 | 7551 | 6633 |
* Other size can be produced follow client's requirements. |
Features
High Energy Absorption and Low Reaction Force
The fender uses compressed air as an energy-absorbing medium, allowing large deflection while maintaining a low reaction force. This feature ensures that both the vessel hull and quay remain undamaged during impact. The unique internal pressure dynamics enable superior cushioning even under heavy berthing speeds.
Reinforced Layered Structure for Maximum Strength
Each fender is constructed with multiple layers of synthetic tire-cord fabric embedded between thick rubber sheets. This design provides exceptional tensile strength, resists fatigue, and prevents tearing under repeated compression. The reinforced body distributes load evenly, extending the fender’s service life even under demanding port conditions.
Durable Outer Rubber Shell
The external layer is composed of weather-resistant, abrasion-resistant, and UV-resistant rubber compounds. It withstands harsh marine environments, including saltwater, oil, and ozone exposure. This durable cover prevents surface cracking and aging, ensuring reliable long-term performance with minimal maintenance.
Ease of Installation and Pressure Maintenance
Hongruntong pneumatic fenders are lightweight, easy to deploy, and can be adjusted by simply changing internal air pressure. Optional chain and tire nets provide additional mechanical protection. Maintenance is simple, requiring only periodic pressure checks and external inspections, significantly reducing operational downtime.
Applications
Commercial Ports and Terminals
Ideal for protecting container ships, bulk carriers, and tankers during berthing, minimizing collision damage and increasing berth safety.
Ship to Ship Transfer Operations
Used in offshore bunkering, oil transfer, and cargo handling, providing a flexible buffer between two moving vessels in dynamic sea conditions.
Offshore Platforms and Floating Docks
Provides stable cushioning for offshore structures, floating piers, and temporary berthing installations exposed to waves and tidal movements.
Why Choose Hongruntong Marine
Advanced Manufacturing Expertise
Hongruntong Marine uses precision-engineered rubber compounds, multi-layer cord reinforcement, and advanced vulcanization technology to ensure consistent quality and strength. Each fender meets ISO 17357 standards, guaranteeing performance stability and air-tight integrity.
Strict Quality Control and Testing
Every fender undergoes burst pressure testing, airtightness checks, and deformation performance verification. The company follows strict inspection protocols for material hardness, tensile strength, and adhesion, ensuring product reliability in demanding marine operations.
Customizable Solutions for Global Projects
Fenders can be custom-designed for diameter, length, inflation pressure, and end fittings. Options include sling-type, chain-tire net type, and customized coatings for specific vessel applications. Hongruntong’s engineering team provides simulation-based designs for optimal safety and efficiency.
Global Service and Long Term Support
Hongruntong Marine offers full life-cycle service, including installation guidance, periodic inspection, reconditioning, and pressure monitoring. A worldwide logistics network ensures timely spare parts supply and technical assistance, helping clients reduce total ownership costs.
FAQ
1. How long does a Yokohama fender last?
Typically 10 to 15 years under standard operating conditions, depending on impact frequency, environment, and maintenance quality.
2. Can the fender operate in extreme weather?
Yes. The materials maintain elasticity and strength in high UV, salinity, and temperature variations from –50 °C to +70 °C.
3. How is the fender maintained?
Regularly check internal air pressure, inspect for cracks or surface damage, and clean marine growth. Maintain correct pressure for stable performance.
4. Can fenders be repaired if damaged?
Minor surface wear can be patched. Major structural or bladder damage should be serviced by Hongruntong’s repair facilities to ensure safety compliance.
5. What types of fittings are available?
Options include flanged ends, swivel eyes, chain-tire nets, or sling-type designs depending on berthing requirements and vessel size.