How to Inflate and Exhaust the Inflatable Pneumatic Fenders?

In the world of marine safety, pneumatic fenders play a vital role in protecting vessels during berthing and ship-to-ship transfers. These ship fenders, often made from strong rubber and filled with compressed air, absorb massive kinetic energy and reduce impact between vessels or between the ship and the dock. However, these fenders must be properly inflated and deflated using the correct procedures to work effectively.

Why Knowing the Right Inflation and Exhaust Method Matters

Inflating or deflating pneumatic rubber fenders may seem like a simple task, but doing it incorrectly can lead to safety risks or damage to the equipment. For example, a port operator once overinflated a fender, causing a bulge that led to uneven pressure distribution—and ultimately, replacement of an otherwise functional fender.

Proper inflation ensures your marine fenders deliver consistent performance, while correct deflation is essential for safe storage or transport. So, whether you’re setting up fenders before mooring or packing them for shipment, knowing the right steps is crucial.

How to Inflate a Pneumatic Fender

Step 1: Prepare the equipment.
Before you start, prepare an air compressor and connect a rubber inflation hose.

Step 2: Attach the necessary accessories.
Install the valve and pressure gauge. Use a valve core tool to remove the valve core, then insert the rubber hose. Double-check all connections.

Step 3: Begin inflating slowly.
Turn on the air supply. Monitor the pressure gauge closely as you gradually fill the fender. Inflate until the pressure reaches the rated level (usually 50 kPa or 80 kPa, depending on the fender model).

Step 4: Seal and inspect.
Once inflated, close the valve and remove the rubber hose. Quickly reinstall and tighten the valve core using the core tool. Check for leaks and store the tools properly.

How to Exhaust (Deflate) a Pneumatic Fender

Step 1: Connect the inflation device.
Although it’s for deflation, the same setup helps safely manage air flow.

Step 2: Remove the valve core to release air.
Use the valve core tool to turn counterclockwise and remove the core. Allow air to escape until the desired pressure level is reached or until it’s fully deflated.

Step 3: Close and inspect.
Once deflation is complete, tighten the valve core clockwise using the tool. Remove all attachments and inspect for leaks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overinflating can stretch or rupture the rubber layers.
• Forgetting to monitor the pressure during inflation.
• Skipping leak tests after attaching or removing the valve core.
• Using damaged hoses or tools that might compromise airtightness.

Tips for Safe Operation

• Always follow the manufacturer’s pressure guidelines.
• Perform regular valve and pressure gauge maintenance.
• Train staff to recognize abnormal fender behavior, such as unusual bulging or air loss.
• For long-term storage, partially deflate to reduce stress on the rubber body.

Conclusion

Whether you’re operating in busy ports or managing offshore transfers, proper inflation and deflation of pneumatic fenders is key to operational safety and equipment longevity. At NANHAI, we specialize in high-quality marine fenders, including pneumatic rubber fenders, and offer full technical support to ensure your team inflates and exhausts fenders the right way—every time.

Need help with your pneumatic fenders? Contact us today for expert guidance and reliable equipment.

People Also Ask

1. How much pressure should a pneumatic fender have?

Usually 50 kPa or 80 kPa, depending on the model.

2. Can I inflate a marine fender manually?

No, large pneumatic fenders require an air compressor.

3. What tools are needed to inflate ship fenders?

Air compressor, rubber hose, valve core tool, and pressure gauge.

4. How to check for air leaks after inflation?

Apply soapy water around the valve and look for bubbles.

5. What’s the right way to deflate a pneumatic fender?

Remove the valve core slowly, release air, then re-tighten.

6. Are pneumatic rubber fenders reusable?

Yes, they can be deflated, stored, and reused multiple times.