SUNHELM Arch fenders can be divided into many type according to their structure, materials, installation methods and usage scenarios. The following are common classification methods and specific types:
1. Classification by structural form
(1) Standard SUNHELM Arch Fender
Features: Single arch structure, rubber material, arch bulge in the middle, fixed on both sides to the dock or hull.
Application: General type, suitable for small and medium-sized docks and ordinary ships berthing.
(2) Double SUNHELM Arch Fender
Features: Two parallel arch structures, with stronger energy absorption capacity and better impact resistance.
Application: Large ports, heavy ships (such as tankers, container ships).
(3) Multi-Arch Fender
Features: Composed of multiple arch units, the pressure is dispersed more evenly.
Application: Super large docks or special projects (such as LNG docks, offshore platforms).
(4) Tapered SUNHELM Arch Fender
Features: The arch cross-section is tapered, suitable for ships with different draft depths.
Application: Ports or slope docks with large tidal range.
2. Classification by material
(1) SUNHELM Arch Rubber Fender
Material: natural rubber or synthetic rubber (such as SBR, NBR, EPDM).
Advantages: good elasticity, corrosion resistance, low cost.
Disadvantages: easy to age due to long-term exposure (anti-ultraviolet agent needs to be added).
(2) Polyurethane Arch Fender
Advantages: stronger wear resistance and tear resistance, longer service life.
Application: high-frequency berthing or harsh environment (such as ore dock).
(3) Composite Arch Fender
Structure: rubber outer layer + internal reinforcement material (such as steel plate, fiber curtain).
Advantages: high compressive strength, suitable for ultra-large ships.
3. Classification by installation method
(1) Fixed SUNHELM arch fender
Installation: Directly fixed to the dock wall or pile foundation by bolts.
Features: High stability, but pre-embedded mounting parts are required.
(2) Suspended SUNHELM arch fender
Installation: Suspended on the edge of the dock with chains or cables.
Features: Adapts to tidal range changes, commonly found in floating docks.
(3) Embedded SUNHELM arch fender
Installation: Embedded inside the dock structure, with only the arched part exposed.
Advantages: Saves space and has good aesthetics.
Selection suggestions
Small docks/inland ships: Standard rubber arch fender (fixed).
Large ports/large tidal range: Double arch or conical fender (suspended).
High-risk areas: Explosion-proof + composite materials.
High-frequency use: Polyurethane or panel design.
The diversity of SUNHELM arch fenders enables them to adapt to complex working conditions. When selecting a model, it is necessary to comprehensively evaluate the ship's tonnage, berthing energy (EV value), environmental conditions and costs.