Pneumatic Fenders
SME Marine Pneumatic Fenders, also known as Yokohama Fenders, provide reliable impact protection for vessels, ports and offshore operations. Reinforced rubber layers and a high energy absorption design support stable performance in demanding berthing and Ship-to-Ship (STS) transfer applications.
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High Energy Capacity
High energy absorption supports safe and efficient berthing operations.
Excellent Shear Resistance
Reinforced rubber construction resists shear, abrasion and repeated impact during operation.
Built for Harsh Conditions
Designed to withstand seawater, weathering and repeated compression for long-term service.
Pneumatic Fender Structure
Built with Reinforced Layers for Reliable Performance
SME Marine Pneumatic Rubber Fenders feature a multi-layer rubber construction engineered for strength, flexibility and impact resistance. Each component contributes to energy absorption and helps maintain stable performance under repeated loading.
Inner Rubber Layer
Forms the inner air chamber and maintains flexibility as the fender compresses.
Synthetic Tire Cord
Reinforces the body to improve tensile strength, fatigue resistance and dimensional stability.
Outer Rubber Layer
Shields the internal structure from abrasion, weathering, seawater and repeated contact.
Air Valve
Provides access for inflation and pressure adjustment to maintain the required working pressure.
Multi-Layer Protection for Demanding Marine Use
The reinforced construction combines flexible rubber compounds with synthetic tire cord reinforcement. This layered design helps the fender withstand repeated compression while maintaining its structural integrity during berthing operations.
An abrasion-resistant outer layer shields the reinforcement from seawater and weathering. Meanwhile, the inner rubber layer retains air pressure and supports controlled deformation under vessel contact.
17357-1:2014
Manufacturing Standard & Quality Inspection
SME Marine Pneumatic Fenders are manufactured in accordance with ISO 17357-1:2014, which specifies requirements for high-pressure floating pneumatic rubber fenders, including materials, performance, dimensions, testing and inspection procedures.
Third-party testing and inspection can also be arranged through recognized organizations such as Bureau Veritas (BV), subject to project requirements and the agreed inspection scope.
Why Choose SME Pneumatic Fenders
A carefully engineered rubber structure and practical configuration options help pneumatic fenders perform across a wide range of marine transfer and berthing conditions.
Advanced Multi-Layer Structure
Reinforced construction and carefully selected rubber compounds support dependable performance.
High Energy Absorption
Designed to absorb berthing energy and help protect vessels and marine structures.
Excellent Shear Resistance
The reinforced rubber body resists shear forces and repeated impact during operation.
Consistent Service Performance
Durable materials and controlled manufacturing support stable performance over time.
Pneumatic Fender Types
Different pneumatic fender configurations meet varying vessel protection and berthing requirements. SME Marine supplies Sling Type and Tyre Net Type options for ship-to-ship transfer and ship-to-quay operations.
Sling Type Fenders
Sling Type fenders use multiple reinforced rubber layers with synthetic tire cord plies. Their flexible structure provides reliable energy absorption and adapts well to vessel movement during berthing and mooring.
KEY BENEFITS
- Flexible and lightweight installation
- High energy absorption
- Suitable for ship-to-ship operation
- Easy handling and deployment
Tyre Net Type Fenders
Tyre Net fenders feature a pneumatic rubber body surrounded by a protective tyre net connected with chains. This outer protection improves abrasion resistance and helps distribute contact forces more evenly during berthing.
KEY BENEFITS
- Enhanced abrasion protection
- Reinforced tyre-and-chain net
- Stable energy absorption
- Suitable for heavy-duty marine operations
Typical Applications
Pneumatic Rubber Fenders provide flexible vessel protection in ship-to-ship transfers, port berthing, offshore facilities and other marine operations.
What Are Yokohama Fenders?
1. What Is a Pneumatic Rubber Fender?
Yokohama fenders are air-filled pneumatic rubber fenders that absorb impact during ship-to-ship transfers and port berthing.
2. What Are Their Advantages for STS Operations?
They provide high energy absorption and relatively low reaction force, helping protect vessel hulls during ship-to-ship operations.
3. How Do Pneumatic Fenders Absorb Energy?
Compressed internal air absorbs impact energy when a vessel contacts the fender.
4. What Materials Are Used?
Pneumatic fenders typically use reinforced rubber construction, synthetic-cord fabric, and protective outer layers.
5. How Do You Choose the Right Size?
Consider vessel displacement, berthing energy, site conditions, and available space to determine the appropriate fender size and pressure.
6. Where Are Pneumatic Fenders Used?
Applications include ports, offshore facilities, floating docks, and ship-to-ship transfer operations.
7. How Do You Maintain Pneumatic Fenders?
Regularly check air pressure, rubber condition, fittings, and protective coatings to support safe operation.
8. Pneumatic Fenders vs. Foam-Filled Fenders?
Pneumatic fenders use compressed air, while foam-filled fenders use resilient foam. Their performance and maintenance requirements vary by design.
9. Do Weather Conditions Affect Pneumatic Fenders?
Saltwater, UV exposure, and temperature changes can affect materials, so regular inspection is important.
10. Can the Fenders Be Customized?
Yes. Diameter, length, pressure specifications, and accessories can be selected to meet project requirements.
