Fenders play a crucial role in protecting marine structures and vessels during berthing and mooring operations. Three common types of fenders—timber, plastic, and rubber—offer varying levels of performance and environmental impact.
Timber fenders, while traditionally used, present several drawbacks. They lack strength and are susceptible to rot and marine borer damage. Additionally, their energy absorption capacity is low, and the berthing reaction varies depending on the point of contact, often resulting in high contact pressure. Moreover, the production of timber fenders consumes valuable tropical hardwoods, raising concerns about sustainability.
Plastic fenders offer a more durable alternative to timber. While their strength is comparable, they exhibit higher abrasion resistance and are resilient against chemical and biological degradation. Their energy absorption capacity is moderate, with berthing reactions dependent on the point of contact but generally lower than timber fenders for a given energy level. Importantly, plastic fenders are considered more environmentally friendly as they are often manufactured from recycled materials.
Rubber fenders stand out as a high-performance option. They possess exceptional abrasion resistance and are resilient to most biological and chemical attacks. With moderate to high energy absorption capacity, rubber fenders offer consistent performance regardless of the contact point. Like plastic fenders, they are also considered environmentally friendly.
In conclusion, while each fender type has its place, the choice often comes down to balancing performance, durability, and environmental considerations. Timber fenders, while affordable, are less durable and environmentally impactful. Plastic fenders offer improved durability and environmental friendliness, but their performance may not be suitable for all applications. Rubber fenders, while potentially more expensive, provide superior performance and environmental sustainability, making them a compelling choice for demanding marine environments.