Why Are High-Pressure Pneumatic Fenders More Widely Used?

1. Introduction

Imagine a large tanker slowly approaching a busy port. The captain and crew must make sure the ship touches the quay gently — no damage, no risk, no delay. What stands between a safe docking and a costly accident?
The answer is often a pneumatic rubber fender — a big, air-filled cushion that absorbs the energy when ships come alongside a dock or another vessel.

Among all types, high-pressure pneumatic fenders are the most widely used around the world. But why are they so popular? Let’s look at what makes them special and why so many ports and shipowners trust them.

2. Who Should Read This

If you are:

• A shipowner who wants to protect your vessel and reduce maintenance costs,
• A berth designer who needs reliable data for safe and efficient layouts,
• Or a port operator who must ensure smooth and safe docking every day—

Then this article is for you. It will help you understand the difference between low-pressure and high-pressure types, and show you why high-pressure pneumatic fenders for ships are the better long-term choice.

3. What Are Pneumatic Fenders

A pneumatic fender is a floating rubber device filled with compressed air. It works like a soft but strong barrier between two surfaces — the ship and the dock, or two ships during transfer.
When the ship pushes against it, the fender compresses and absorbs the energy. Once the pressure is released, it returns to its original shape.

There are two main kinds:

• Low-pressure fenders — cheaper, lighter, and used for small boats or temporary work.
• High-pressure fenders — stronger, stable in shape, and used for large ships or long-term installations.

4. Why High-Pressure Fenders Are the First Choice

Let’s see why most ports, terminals, and offshore operators prefer high-pressure pneumatic rubber fenders.

4.1. They Absorb More Energy Safely

High-pressure fenders are built with multiple rubber and tire cord layers. They hold more internal pressure — usually around 0.15 to 0.20 MPa — which allows them to absorb much more energy during berthing.

That means they can protect large vessels, like tankers, LNG carriers, and cargo ships, even during heavy contact.
Result: less damage to the ship’s hull and to the quay structure.

4.2. They Stay in Shape Under Load

A good fender must keep its shape even when it’s pressed hard.
Low-pressure types often flatten or bend unevenly, which changes how the force spreads.

High-pressure fenders, however, keep a stable round shape. This gives more predictable performance and safer contact between ship and dock.
Result: easier engineering design and fewer surprises during berthing.

4.3. They Last Longer and Cost Less Over Time

Yes, high-pressure pneumatic fenders cost more to buy.
But they also last much longer — often 8 to 10 years — thanks to their strong, reinforced structure.

They resist wear, aging, and weather better than low-pressure ones.
So over their full life, they actually save money because you replace them less often.

Result: lower total cost of ownership and less downtime for maintenance.

4.4. They Meet International Standards

Most high-pressure pneumatic fenders are built to ISO 17357-1:2014 standards.
This means their design, size, energy absorption, and reaction forces are tested and certified.

Ports and shipowners prefer certified products because they meet insurance and safety requirements.
Result: easy approval for new berths and peace of mind for operators.

4.5. They Work Well in Ship-to-Ship (STS) Transfers

Ship-to-ship transfers need reliable protection in open water, where waves and wind can move vessels unpredictably.

High-pressure fenders provide stable contact and strong energy absorption even in rough conditions.
They help prevent damage during fuel transfers, cargo loading, or offshore supply work.
Result: smoother operations and better safety at sea.

4.6. They Fit into Engineered Berthing Systems

Engineers can easily predict how high-pressure fenders behave under load.
That makes it simple to design berthing systems — from fender panels to bollard layouts — that match the forces involved.
Result: safer designs and easier maintenance planning.

5. When Low-Pressure Fenders Still Make Sense

Of course, low-pressure fenders still have their uses.
They are lighter, easier to move, and cheaper. Many small ports, fishing docks, or temporary projects choose them for practical reasons.

If you only handle small boats or short-term operations, a low-pressure fender might be enough.
But if you manage large vessels, frequent docking, or heavy loads, high-pressure fenders will always be safer and more economical in the long run.

6. How to Choose the Right High-Pressure Fender

Before buying, consider these factors:

1. Vessel size and type — larger ships need larger, stronger fenders.
2. Berth structure — fixed quay, dolphin, or floating dock.
3. Approach speed — higher speed means more energy to absorb.
4. Weather and wave conditions — strong wind or current means you need more safety margin.
5. Expected lifespan — how long you plan to use the fender.
6. Maintenance access — can you easily inspect and refill the air pressure?
7. Certifications — look for ISO-approved or class-tested models.
8. Supplier support — after-sales service, spare parts, and testing help matter.

If you need guidance, talk with experienced suppliers like NANHAI. Their engineers can help you match the right pneumatic fenders for ships to your specific project.

7. About NANHAI

NANHAI is a professional manufacturer of pneumatic rubber fenders with years of experience in ship and port equipment.
Their high-pressure fenders follow ISO standards and are used by shipyards, ports, and offshore projects worldwide.

NANHAI’s products are built with upgraded rubber materials that provide better wear resistance and longer life.
The company also offers full technical support, installation guidance, and quick response service — helping clients get the best performance from every fender.

8. Real Example

A major Asian port replaced old low-pressure fenders with high-pressure pneumatic types from NANHAI.
Before the change, the port faced frequent hull scratches and higher repair costs.
After the upgrade, berthing became smoother and safer. Maintenance dropped by over 40%, and the fenders still perform well after several years of use.

This case shows how a one-time investment in high-pressure fenders can pay off in long-term reliability.

9. FAQ

Q1: Are high-pressure fenders always the best choice?
Not always. They are best for medium and large ships. Small boats can still use low-pressure ones safely.

Q2: How long do high-pressure fenders last?
Usually 8–10 years with proper care. Regular air checks and cleaning help them last longer.

Q3: Can they be repaired?
Yes. Most damages to the outer rubber can be repaired easily without replacing the whole fender.

Q4: Do they need daily maintenance?
No. Just check the air pressure once in a while and inspect the body for damage.

Q5: Can I use them for ship-to-ship transfers?
Yes, they are the preferred choice for STS operations due to high energy absorption and shape stability.

10. Conclusion

High-pressure pneumatic fenders are popular for a reason.
They absorb more energy, last longer, perform better, and meet international safety standards.
They protect ships and ports from costly damage and make operations smoother and safer.

If you’re choosing pneumatic fenders for ships, think long-term.
Work with trusted suppliers like NANHAI, who can help you design, select, and maintain the right pneumatic rubber fenders for your port or vessel.

A strong fender is more than just equipment — it’s the first line of defense for your ship.