MARINE FENDER SYSTEMS

摘要

Historically, the Navy has used timber fender systems to berth vessels. Over the years, the fender systems have largely remained the same. The only significant historical modification was the incorporation of rubber elements to the wale system, to increase the energy absorption of the system. However, with environmental constraints placed on the use of treated timber, the Navy has recently incorporated other materials and new technologies into their fender systems. rn New materials used to replace the timber fendering systems have included concrete, steel, plastic and fiberglass. These materials have all been incorporated into fendering systems for various berthing loads and fendering configurations. Foam-filled fenders, hydro-pneumatic fenders and buckling column rubber fenders have also been used as part of fendering systems. These materials have been used in various elements to form energy efficient fender systems.