“YOKOHAMA PNEUMATIC FENDERS” refers to a type of marine fender that is widely used in the shipping industry for protection against collisions. These fenders are also commonly known as Yokohama-type pneumatic fenders or simply Yokohama fenders. Here’s a detailed explanation of what they are and their key features:
Definition
Yokohama pneumatic fenders are made of synthetic-cord-reinforced rubber sheets filled with compressed air. This design allows them to float on water and act as shock absorbers between two ships (ship-to-ship) or between ships and berthing structures when they come alongside each other.
Key Features
- Material and Construction:
- Made of high-quality rubber reinforced with synthetic cords.
- The compressed air inside enables buoyancy and shock absorption.
- Compliance:
- Manufactured and tested in compliance with international standards such as ISO 17357, ensuring their reliability and performance.
- Versatility:
- Available in various sizes, ranging from 500 mm to 4,500 mm in diameter and from 500 mm to 9,000 mm in length.
- Can be customized to meet specific requirements.
- Ease of Handling and Installation:
- Lightweight, making them easy to handle and install using guy-ropes or guy-chains.
- Performance:
- Can resist shearing forces and maintain energy absorption levels even under inclined compression up to 15 degrees.
- Provide low and comparatively even hull pressure, minimizing damage to ships and berthing structures.
- Durability:
- Consist of several synthetic-cord layers and tough abrasion-resistant rubber, ensuring consistent performance even under rough conditions and cyclic loads.
- Have a long service life due to their self-buoyancy and high-quality materials.
- Low Maintenance:
- Minimal maintenance costs and damage risks due to their robust construction.
Applications
Yokohama pneumatic fenders are suitable for a wide range of applications, including:
- Large tankers, LPG vessels, and bulk cargo ships.
- Fast ferries and aluminum-hulled vessels.
- Temporary or permanent installations.
- Rapid response and emergency fendering.
- As stand-off fenders to realign ships with shore facilities.
Conclusion
In summary, Yokohama pneumatic fenders are an essential protective device in the shipping industry, known for their durability, versatility, and ability to absorb shock and minimize damage during collisions. Their compliance with international standards and ease of handling make them a popular choice among ship owners and operators worldwide.