How To Inspect Pneumatic Fenders

The inspection of pneumatic fenders usually includes the following aspects:

1. Appearance inspection: Check whether there is obvious wear, cracks, deformation or other damage on the surface of the ball. This can be done through visual inspection to ensure the integrity and smoothness of the ball surface.
2. Dimensional measurement: Measure the diameter, length, thickness and other dimensional parameters of the ball to ensure that it meets the design requirements and specifications.
3. Hardness test: Use a hardness tester to conduct a hardness test on the ball to evaluate its hardness and elasticity. This can help determine the quality and durability of the ball.
4. Compression test: Carry out a compression test on the pneumatic fenders to simulate the pressure experienced when berthing. During the test, a hydraulic system or other equipment can be used to apply a certain pressure on the ball and record its deformation, stress and changes.
5. Material analysis: Conduct chemical composition analysis and physical performance testing on the ball materials to ensure that they comply with relevant standards and specifications.
6. Durability test: By simulating the actual environmental conditions of pneumatic fenders use, such as humidity, high temperature, etc., the durability test is conducted on the berthing ball to evaluate its service life and performance stability under different conditions.
7. Logo inspection: Check the logo, manufacturer information and production date on the pneumatic fenders to ensure that it meets the corresponding standards and certification requirements.

The inspection of pneumatic fenders should be carried out by trained and qualified professionals or third-party testing agencies to ensure the accuracy and reliability of test results. The inspection report usually records the various test results and evaluation conclusions of the ball in detail for reference by shipowners, shipowners’ agents, port managers or regulatory agencies.