Top 4 Types of Rubber Fenders for Tugboat and Workboat
Tug boat fenders are high abrasion resistance rubber fenders used to protect the vessel and the other surface during contact. These fenders process excellent resilience properties and are highly durable due to the great sea water resistance. Port owners and tug boat owners are definitely very familiar with such boat fenders as it absorbs the energy during contact and protects the both colliding surfaces.
4 Most Popular Types
Tug boat fenders can actually be categorized into 4 main types where each serves a different application. The type and number of fenders depends on the size and arrangement of the tug boat itself.
1. Cylindrical Tug Fenders
Cylindrical type of tug rubber fender is commonly used as the primary fendering system fitted to the bow or stern of tug boats. Usually a longitudinal support chain runs down the centre of the fender, supported by straps and chains fitted into grooves. Sizes vary according to the vessel size.
These fenders are used to push against flared hulls and its shape is flexible for ship-to-ship (STS) operation with different types of vessels in open sea conditions as well.
2. M Fenders
M Fenders are installed to the bow and the aft part of tug boats to protect the vessel from damages during operation. The fenders’ large flexible surface area that minimizes the pressure acted upon the vessel during pushing and pulling operations can be fitted around tight curves. Similar to block fenders, M-shaped boat bumpers provide extra grip with their grooved surface while the triple “legs” acts as a strong attachment to the vessel.
M-shaped rubber fenders have a relatively low weight and this attribute contributes to a better tug stability. Due to its heavy duty design and strong attachment, M-shaped is one of the most popular rubber fenders.
3. W Fenders
W Fenders have an extreme-duty design that is for even the most extreme operating conditions. It is definitely one of the most commonly used boat bumper for tugs today. Fenders can be installed around the curves of most hull shapes and effectively buffer the collision between docks and ships. Tensile strength is highly customizable according to client’s requirements.
Ocean-going tugs and large harbor tugs are the most common applications for W type fenders.
Tug Fender
Tug fenders must work harder, for longer and under more adverse conditions than any other fender type. Tug fenders can be divided into three main types...4. Keyhole Block Fenders
Keyhole block fenders are also known as cube boat bumpers. This traditional shaped fender has a large contact surface that results in low hull pressures, making it even more suitable for heavy-duty applications. An optional UHMW-PE face is mostly available.
Tugs that operate in heavy swell and storm conditions therefore prefer keyholw block boat fenders most of the time.
Keyhole Fender
Keyhole Fenders are made of high abrasion resistance rubber. They are specially designed for tugboats and workboats.Contact Us
Feel free to contact us if you have any comments or inquires and one of our skilled staff representatives will contact you within the next business day.