In the maritime industry, fenders are of the utmost value. Their usage is a savior for boat owners and pilots of vessels. Without them, the vessel’s journey is impossible. However, there are different types of fenders available, and rubber fenders are one of those. But the question is: What are rubber, and why are they so popular?
I understand that this question is well understood by many associated with the marine industry. However, some beginners entering this field seem to be confused. Even if you are a marine field lover, do you know the reason behind the popularity of these fenders? I bet you don’t! So, let’s kick things off and discuss the rubber fenders in detail.
Overview of Rubber Fenders
Rubber fenders are like bumpers but for boats, ships, and vessels. They act as security guards for vessels, protecting them from damage during docking. These fenders are made of rubber and remain hung around the ship. They collide with the docking structure and absorb the impact.
Different types of rubber fenders are available for vessels. However, they all serve the same purpose: protecting ships. Although their quality varies from one type to another, each type offers unique features. They are made to serve vessels of different sizes and heights.
Their usability is widespread and dates back many decades. In the past, wood was the primary material used to make fenders. But those fenders made with wood were not very effective. The reason is that wood does not absorb impact, so its effectiveness was compromised.
The introduction of rubber material in the fenders proves to be handy. The reason is that this material absorbs shocks. When a ship collides with a docking structure, these rubber fenders absorb the kinetic energy. As a result, the boat does not face any jerk or sudden jolt. Moreover, the sides of ships remain safe as the fenders first touch the docking structures.
Quick Summary: Rubber fenders primarily aim to save ships and vessels. They do this in two ways. First, they absorb shocks, which is a big plus. Second, they first collide with docking structures so the ship’s body remains safe from collisions at speed.
Characteristics of Rubber Fenders
In the introduction, I mentioned these fenders are trendy. The question is, WHY? The answer to this question is linked to the characteristics of these fenders. Let’s dive deeper and explore the critical properties of these fenders. So, understanding them will help you know why they are so trendy.
1- Elasticity
First, rubber is very elastic. If you stretch it with power, it will return to its original shape—it won’t deform permanently. This is due to its long chain of polymers, which is very flexible. When rubber is used in fenders, they become elastic. This elasticity helps them absorb and dissipate energy with ease.
Imagine a ship coming to dock at the docking structures. It comes with some speed. On its approach, the fenders first collide with the docking structures. Due to the collision, they produce kinetic energy. The rubber fenders absorb all the energy and get deformed and compressed.
However, this deformation or compression of rubber fenders is not a big issue. Due to their elasticity, these fenders regain their original shape with ease. Additionally, they protect the docking structures from damage.
2- Durability & Resistance
The rubber fenders remain in the salty water. It won’t be wrong that they spend more of their lives in water. Moreover, they face extreme weather conditions. How can we forget their exposure to extreme sunlight and UV rays? When installed on a ship, they face severe conditions.
But they remain in good shape without deteriorating. The reason is that the rubber used in these fenders is of the highest quality. Its resistance to different environmental conditions is excellent. But you should always buy fenders from a reputable manufacturer.
It will help you purchase solid and reliable fenders made with high-quality material. Don’t fall victim to cheap manufacturers that compromise on quality. Doing so will become a headache, and your money will be at risk constantly.
3- Tensile Strength
Tensile strength is a crucial feature that makes them very popular. Let’s first understand what this term means. It is the maximum force that material can bear without deteriorating or breaking. Rubber fenders have high tensile strength, which makes them stand out in intense collision cases.
For example, if the ship approaches a dock at high speed, the fenders will face more collisions. In such cases, the high tensile comes in handy. It allows fenders to get deformed and still don’t break or deteriorate. As a result, the fenders remain in good shape even after facing such an intense collision. These characteristics make rubber fenders very prominent.
4- Compression Set Resistance
This is another prominent feature that makes rubber fenders stand out. Let’s understand what this feature means. It simply indicates the recovery of fenders after being under compression for an extended duration. Some rubbers are of low quality, so they get stuck and deform if they undergo compression for more time.
This affects the performance of the rubber fenders. Therefore, I always stress choosing the fender with high-quality rubber. Such rubber fenders can return to their shape no matter how long they remain compressed. This feature makes the rubber fenders ready to face the harshest shocks and jerks. The rubber of the fenders doesn’t get stuck during impact.
Working of Rubber Fenders
Rubber fenders work based on two characteristics: elasticity and tensile strength. Rubber with compromised elasticity will never perform well when used in these fenders. Keep in mind that these fenders can be installed on docking structures and vessels.
Let’s understand how these marine rubber fenders work. The ship or vessel approaches the docking structures for its stay. It comes towards the dock with some speed. If the ship collides with the dock quickly, both the ship and dock will be damaged due to collision.
These fenders on the vessel act as barriers. They prevent direct collisions of ships with docks. Instead, when the boat approaches the dock, the rubber fender collides with the docking structure. Keep in mind that fenders are compressible and elastic. So, they absorb the impact of collision by absorbing the kinetic energy.
The fenders then dissipate the energy. Because they absorb impact, the ship does not feel any big jerk and remains safe. Because of their elastic nature, the fenders get compressed and return to their original shape. In this way, these rubber fenders play an integral part in the marine industry.
Types of Rubber Fenders
There are different types of rubber fenders. Each of them varies in terms of their properties and performance. Moreover, the installation process of rubber fenders also differs significantly. Here is the list of those types:
- D-Type Fenders
- Super Cell Fenders
- Super Arch Fenders
- ME Rubber Fenders
- Super Cone Fenders
- Cylindrical Rubber Fenders
It is a keynote that all of these fenders have the same functionality. However, their features and operations make them different. As mentioned earlier, all rubber fenders have unique shapes and sizes, making them suitable for various ships and vessels.
Are Buoys and Fenders the Same?
No, buoys and fenders are not the same. They serve different purposes. Fenders are safety bumpers that safeguard the ship when it collides with the dock. On the flip side, buoys are warning signs showing safe sea passage.
Buoys are usually used when the ship needs to stay in the sea. They are anchored in the seabed and keep the boat in one place. Captains generally use buoys during storms and in bad weather conditions. This helps them maintain the ships at one point. There are different types of buoys available for boats.
Fenders are different from buoys. They are installed on the sides of vessels or ships. They can be removed and placed inside the boat when not in use. During docking, they ensure the safety of vessels. Just like buoys, there are also many types of these fenders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What material is Fender made of?
Rubber is the primary material that makes most of the fenders. Generally, this material is excellent for absorbing the kinetic energy produced during collision. What makes it popular is its cost-effectiveness.
What are rubber fenders?
They are protective components installed on ships or vessels. They are elastic and made of rubber. What makes them stand out is their ability to absorb shocks and jolts.
What is the best material for fenders?
Various materials are available for making fenders. However, I consider rubber the best material for marine fenders. It is inexpensive and efficient, and its elasticity and tensile strength make it stand out.
Are car and marine fenders different?
Yes, car fenders generally consist of plastic. They are fragile and cannot withstand shocks. On the other hand, marine fenders are robust and durable. They are perfect for bearing extreme force and pressure with ease.
What is the purpose of fender covers, and when should they be used?
Fender covers protect the fenders, acting as an additional shield or security layer. Due to covers, sunlight and UV exposures cannot affect the rubber quality of these fenders.
Conclusion
Rubber fenders are super helpful in many ways. They protect both the ship and docking structure without deteriorating. Their excellent elasticity and tensile strength ensure that they work efficiently. There are different types of rubber fenders, and each is very specific. This guide covers every minute detail about these fenders. This piece will prove to be a guiding light.