When Are Arch Fenders Suitable for Large Vessels?

If you’ve ever walked along a busy port, you’ve probably seen arch fenders. They’re those curved rubber bumpers fixed along the dock to absorb impact when ships berth. But can they handle the massive size and weight of large vessels?

The short answer: yes, they can — if you choose the right design and setup. As a professional arch fenders manufacturer, NANHAI has supplied systems for everything from small fishing boats to bulk carriers, and we know what it takes to make arch fenders work for big ships.

What Are Arch Fenders?

Arch fenders get their name from their shape — a simple, strong arch made from durable marine rubber. When a ship presses against them, they compress, absorb the berthing energy, and push back to keep the ship and dock safe.

Why people like them:

• Simple design – fewer moving parts, fewer things to break
• Durable material – resistant to seawater, sun, and wear
• Low maintenance – just occasional checks and cleaning

When Are Arch Fenders Suitable for Large Vessels?

Arch fenders are tough, simple, and reliable. For large vessels, they work well if the system is designed for high loads.

Typical berthing situations

Large ships like container carriers, tankers, and bulk cargo vessels often berth at ports with controlled speeds and moderate berthing energy. In these cases, arch fenders can do the job without issues.

Dock and installation conditions

For big ships, you shouldn’t just bolt one or two fenders to the dock and call it a day. You need multiple arch fenders working together, mounted behind a large fender panel. The panel spreads the force over a wide area, reducing hull pressure and avoiding dents.

Adding UHMW-PE panels

Here’s an upgrade worth considering: fit the fender panel with a UHMW-PE (Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene) face pad. This smooth, tough plastic layer reduces friction, letting the ship slide along the dock without scratching the paint. It’s especially helpful for large vessels that shift slightly while moored.

Key conditions for suitability

Arch fenders will work for large vessels when:

1. They are grouped and mounted with a strong backing frame.
2. A large fender panel spreads the load.
3. UHMW-PE pads are used to protect the hull and reduce friction.
4. The fender size matches the vessel’s energy requirements.

Arch Fenders vs. Cone/Cell Fenders

• Energy absorption – Cone and cell fenders absorb more energy in a smaller space, but arch fenders can still match them with enough units and a panel.
• Cost – Arch fenders are generally more affordable and easier to install.
• Maintenance – Arch fenders have fewer parts, meaning less upkeep.

For heavy-duty berths with very high energy, cone or cell fenders might be better. But for many large-vessel berths, arch fenders are still a solid choice.

Design Tips from NANHAI

From years of supplying arch fenders worldwide, here’s what we recommend:

• Always check berthing energy before choosing the fender size.
• Use UHMW-PE face pads for better hull protection.
• Inspect bolts and backing plates regularly.
• Replace worn pads before they damage the hull.

Conclusion

Yes, you can use arch fenders for large vessels — just ensure the system is designed for the load, includes a large fender panel, and ideally comes with a UHMW-PE pad. With the right setup, they’ll protect both the ship and dock for many years.

Need help choosing the right system?
Contact NANHAI, your trusted arch fenders manufacturer, for free design advice and fast delivery. We’ll make sure your berth is ready for any vessel.