Pneumatic fender

Yokohama pneumatic fenders are designed for berthing, mooring, and Ship-to-Ship Pneumatic Fenders operations, providing reliable energy absorption and controlled reaction forces across varying tidal and weather conditions. As a Floating Yokohama Fendersolution, they adapt to different vessel sizes and operational scenarios with ease.

Available in two standard types — Chain and Net Type and Sling Type — operators can select the configuration best suited to site conditions and handling requirements.

Manufactured in accordance with ISO 17357, each unit is tested to meet strict performance and safety standards. The high-pressure design (50 kPa or 80 kPa) ensures effective energy absorption while minimizing hull contact forces, making these fenders suitable for continuous use at ports, terminals, and offshore locations where reliability and compliance are critical.

Key Features and Specifications

*Size Range: Diameters from 500 mm to 4500 mm and lengths up to 12 meters or more. For reference: a pneumatic fender sized 1,500 × 3,000 mm has an approximate weight of 550 kg per unit.

*Customized options: Internal pressures and end fittings tailored to project requirements.

*Energy Absorption Performance: High-pressure construction allows efficient energy absorption while maintaining controlled reaction forces, suitable for repeated berthing and STS operations.

*Protection and Service Life: Chain and net protection systems are available to reduce external abrasion and extend service life, particularly in heavy-duty port and offshore applications.

*Flexible Installation: Non-sheathed variants allow maximum surface contact and easier placement.

*Hull-Friendly: Many fenders use non-marking rubber to minimize hull damage during docking.

Performance Advantages

The strength of pneumatic fender lies in their combination of durability, reliability, and safety and cost-effectiveness, offering superior protection for vessels, docks, and crews.

1.ISO-Verified Performance: All performance parameters are designed and validated in accordance with ISO 17357-1:2014, ensuring predictable energy absorption, reaction force, and deflection behavior under standardized test conditions.

2.High Energy Absorption: Smoothly disperses impact forces, protecting hulls and quay structures.

3.Durable Construction: Multi-layer rubber and cord reinforcement resist UV, abrasion, and long-term fatigue.

4.Safe Under Load: Gradual pressure response prevents sudden shocks, safeguarding crews, cargo, and vessels.

5.Proven Reliability: Maintains consistent performance in all marine conditions over time.

6.Versatile & Cost-Effective: Extends dock and vessel life while performing efficiently in harbors, offshore, and berthing operations.

How to Use / Installation & Operation

1.Inspect – Check fender body, fittings, valves, and confirm internal pressure (50 kPa / 80 kPa).

2.Position – Align with vessel hull or berth; secure chain/net or sling as required. For floating fenders, ensure sufficient water depth.

3.Inflate – Gradually inflate using a calibrated gauge and pump; avoid over- or under-inflation.

4.Operate – Use for berthing, mooring, or Ship-to-Ship (STS) operations; ensure contact occurs over designed fender area.

5.Maintenance – Check for wear, abrasions, or leaks; adjust pressure if needed. Use repair kit (charge valve, stainless steel nut, quick charge accessory) for minor repairs.

6.Storage – Keep in a dry, shaded area; slightly deflate for long-term storage; avoid heavy objects on top.

Trusted by ports and operators worldwide, pneumatic fenders provide reliable protection for vessels and infrastructure, ensuring smooth operations and minimizing the risk of damage. Durable, easy to maintain, and adaptable to a variety of berthing and ship-to-ship scenarios, they help operators maximize efficiency and reduce downtime.