Front Panels & Steel Structures
Design Of Marine Fender Front Panel
Fender front panels distribute berthing loads across a larger contact area. As a result, they help reduce local pressure on the vessel's hull and improve the overall performance of the fender system.
At SME Marine, our engineers use advanced engineering analysis, including ANSYS finite element analysis, to evaluate stress distribution and structural deformation under different operating conditions. This process helps our team assess structural performance and refine each design to meet project requirements.
Furthermore, every front panel follows the fender type, design loads, installation conditions and technical specifications.
Front Panel Structure
Marine fender front panels generally feature either an open or closed frame structure. Although both configurations support the fender system, each offers different advantages. Therefore, engineers select the appropriate design according to the fender arrangement, structural requirements and installation conditions.
Closed Frame Structure
An enclosed frame provides a supporting structure for the front panel. In particular, this configuration suits projects that prioritize structural strength, corrosion protection and long-term service life.
Open Frame Structure
Alternatively, an open frame offers a different supporting arrangement. Its accessible structure can also simplify certain fabrication, installation and maintenance requirements, depending on the project design.
Surface Pressure
The front panel distributes the fender reaction force across a wider contact area. Consequently, this arrangement helps reduce the pressure applied to the vessel's hull during berthing.
Our front panel designs aim to keep surface pressure below 200 kN/m², subject to vessel characteristics and project requirements.
For additional hull protection, engineers can specify UHMW-PE pads on the panel surface. These pads create a low-friction contact interface, helping reduce friction as the vessel moves alongside the berth.
Corrosion Prevention
Marine steel front panels face continuous exposure to seawater, moisture and changing weather conditions. For this reason, an appropriate corrosion protection system plays an important role in extending structural service life.
Depending on project specifications, we can apply a multi-layer coating system consisting of primer, intermediate coat and topcoat. Alternatively, hot-dip galvanizing combined with a protective topcoat provides another option.
For further protection, engineers can also attach sacrificial anodes to the lower part of the panel. The final treatment method depends on the operating environment and project requirements.
UHMW-PE Face Pads
UHMW-PE face pads provide a durable, low-friction contact surface between the marine fender system and the vessel's hull. Thanks to their excellent wear resistance, these pads suit demanding marine applications.
For secure installation, we mechanically bolt the pads to the steel front panel. This arrangement also allows maintenance teams to replace individual pads when necessary.
In terms of appearance, customers can choose yellow, blue, black or customized color combinations to meet their project requirements.
Compatible Marine Fender Systems
SME Marine designs front panels and supporting steel structures for various marine rubber fender systems. Since each application has different requirements, the final configuration depends on the fender type, installation layout and project specifications.
Our front panels can work with the following systems:
Each fender type requires a suitable front panel arrangement. Therefore, our team evaluates the application requirements before confirming the final design.
Marine Steel Structures
SME Marine manufactures customized marine steel structures according to project drawings, technical specifications and application requirements.
These structures serve ports, terminals, shipyards and offshore facilities. Depending on the operating environment, we can tailor the structural configuration, material selection and corrosion protection to suit each application.
From individual steel components to complete fabricated assemblies, our manufacturing approach focuses on structural strength, reliable fabrication and long-term durability in demanding marine environments.
Need Customized Marine Fender Front Panels?
Contact SME Marine to discuss your project drawings, technical requirements and marine steel structure needs.
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