SF Bow Fender (Ship Bow Fender)

Bow Fender (Ship Bow Protection)

The bow fender is an essential device designed to protect the ship’s bow when docking, mooring, or in contact with other objects. It minimizes impact forces, prevents structural damage to the bow, and extends the vessel’s service life.

Tug Boat Fender Size and Dimensions

2 – 13 meters per segment or connected for extended lengths (longer continuous lengths available upon request).

** Mounting recess dimensions (F & G) may vary depending on the size and type of mounting accessories (chain/nylon strap).

⏀OD [mm]	⏀J [mm]	⏀E [mm]	⏀H [mm]	A [mm]	B [mm]	C [mm]
200	150	100	75	500	150	530
250	190	125	75	500	200	570
300	225	150	75	700	225	600
350	260	175	100	800	250	630
400	300	200	100	800	300	670
500	375	250	100	900	300	730
600	450	300	125	900	350	800
700	525	350	125	1,000	350	860
800	600	400	125	1,000	350	930
900	675	450	150	1,100	350	1,000
1,000	750	500	150	1,200	350	1,060

1. Functions of Bow Fenders

Impact absorption: Absorbs shock from collisions during vessel movement or berthing.
Hull protection: Prevents scratches, dents, or structural deformation of the bow.
Berth protection: Prevents damage to the dock during mooring operations.
Enhanced safety: Improves operational safety in rough seas or strong currents.

2. Structure of a Bow Fender

A bow fender typically consists of:

a. Outer Layer (Protective Shell)

Made of high-strength rubber or synthetic material.
Resistant to seawater, UV rays, and chemicals.
Can have a smooth surface or grooved for better grip.

b. Energy-Absorbing Core

Made from solid rubber, foam rubber, pneumatic air, or polyurethane foam (PU Foam).
Disperses impact forces to minimize damage.

c. Mounting System

Includes bolts, steel frames, or cables for securing the fender to the ship’s bow.
Custom-designed for each vessel and operational conditions.

3. Types of Bow Fenders

Fenders vary depending on vessel type and working conditions.

a. Rubber Bow Fender

Material: Natural or synthetic rubber.
Features:
- High durability and strength.
- Low maintenance, long service life.
- Suitable for cargo ships, fishing vessels, and passenger ships.
Common Shapes:
- D-shape
- Cone Fender
- Cylindrical Fender

b. Pneumatic Bow Fender

Material: Reinforced rubber with wire mesh or steel shell.
Features:
- Easy installation; adjustable hardness by inflation or deflation.
- Superior energy absorption compared to solid rubber.
- Commonly used for oil tankers, navy ships, and deep-sea vessels.

c. Polyurethane Foam Bow Fender

Material: PU foam core with rubber or synthetic outer shell.
Features:
- Lighter than solid rubber fenders.
- Cannot deflate like pneumatic types.
- Used for yachts, tugboats, and rescue vessels.

4. Applications

Commercial & cargo ships: Protects vessels in crowded ports.
Naval ships: Enables fast and safe berthing under harsh conditions.
Cruise & passenger ships: Ensures smooth docking without hull damage.
Tugboats & rescue vessels: Reduces impact during vessel assistance.

5. Choosing the Right Bow Fender

✔ Vessel type: Small ships – PU or solid rubber; large ships – pneumatic.
✔ Operating environment: Heavy seas require durable, high-absorption fenders.
✔ Cost & maintenance: Solid rubber requires less maintenance than pneumatic types.

Fender Accessories

Installation

Easy installation with anchor bolts fixed during concrete casting or later with chemical/sika bolts.
Positioning bolts are assisted by jigs to ensure accuracy and compliance with port safety standards.
The backing panel can be installed using cranes, workboats, and standard construction tools.

Quality Standards

Manufactured according to PIANC, BV, or third-party certifications (e.g., TT3 – Vietnam, SGS).
Lifespan of 30–50 years depending on port conditions, with stable energy absorption and reaction force.
Warranty: 3–5 years depending on port design requirements.