Many people may have heard of foam fenders, but don’t know exactly what they are?
Foam fenders are a high-performance and durable marine flotation system. It provides a safe and protective performance for facilities such as ports/terminals/bridges and open harbors. This fender can be used in a variety of harsh environments. It also has excellent energy absorption and low reaction force.
In the following, HENGER will explain in detail what a foam fender is? What is its structure and what does it do? To know the difference between it and a pneumatic fender, check Foam Fender VS Pneumatic Fender for expert advice!
Table of Contents
Foam Fender Structure
The Foam Fender has a solid inner structure. It provides strong support for marine protection. It has the following main components:
Internal steel core: This provides overall support and strength to the fender, thus ensuring its structural stability and integrity. This is particularly useful in high impact scenarios.
Closed cell foam core: HENGER’s foam fenders are made of EVA or PE. EVA is a new plastic material that is extremely flexible and impact resistant. PE foam is a high polymer low density material with excellent cushioning properties and moisture resistance, which can maintain a stable protective performance in harsh environments. Both materials have an independent pore structure that prevents moisture penetration. Even after being punctured, buoyancy is well maintained.
Reinforced Fiber Layer (Nylon Filament Reinforcement Layer): The reinforcement layer can effectively strengthen the tensile properties of the fender. In addition, it prevents external forces from causing direct damage to the inner foam. Even if the outer layer is damaged, the overall buoyancy is not affected until it is repaired.
Outer polyurethane elastomer coating: The polyurethane elastomer coating greatly enhances the durability of the fender. This material can withstand extreme temperatures, hydrocarbon corrosion, salt water and fresh water erosion. In addition, this material is extremely resistant to UV rays as well as corrosion, making it especially suitable for extreme environments.
Performance features
High energy absorption: Foam fenders absorb 40% more energy than pneumatic fenders of the same size and have a very high protective performance. But it is more expensive.
Low reaction force: It can effectively mitigate the impact force when mooring. This reduces damage to the hull of the boat and the marina, providing a smooth and safe mooring environment.
Durability: The fenders remain buoyant even when they are damaged. Continued protection begins after repairs are completed.
Size and Customization
HENGER offers a wide range of sizes of foam fenders to meet the specific requirements of different customers. The common size ranges are as follows:
Standard diameter range: 500mm to 4500mm, suitable for a wide range of vessels and marinas.
Standard length range:1000mm to 9000mm, which can meet the requirements of different berths and operation scenarios.
Support customization: If you need customization, you can contact HENGER engineers. We will provide you with detailed customized solutions to perfectly match your application needs.
Summarize
These are just a few of the insights HENGER has to offer on pneumatic fenders, and HENGER’s foam fender systems provide long-lasting protection for your marina, thanks to their scientifically designed construction and material properties.
If you are looking for durable and high-performance foam fenders, then HENGER is the ideal partner for you. Contact us directly online for professional solutions. We will provide you with a comprehensive and professional marina protection strategy tailored to your needs.