Safety performance test of pneumatic fenders

Marine berthing balls (also known as anti-collision balls) provide important buffers and protection between ships and docks, preventing damage caused by collisions and friction. Due to their key role in ensuring the safety of ship docking, it is essential to understand and comply with the safety performance tests and standards of marine berthing balls. These standards and test methods ensure the effectiveness and reliability of marine berthing balls in various operating environments. This article will explore the safety performance tests of marine berthing balls and related international standards to help ship operators select and use the berthing balls that best meet safety requirements.

1. Basic functions and importance of marine berthing balls
   During the docking process, marine berthing balls protect ships and dock facilities in the following ways:

Absorbing impact energy: When the ship approaches the dock, the berthing ball absorbs the impact force by deformation, preventing direct contact between the hull and the dock.
Reduce friction: The softness and elasticity of the berthing ball material reduces friction damage between the hull and the dock.
Provide support and stability: Under tidal changes and wind and wave conditions, the berthing ball helps the ship remain stable and prevents damage caused by frequent movement.

2. Safety performance test of marine berthing balls
   In order to ensure the effectiveness and reliability of marine berthing balls in actual operation, a series of performance tests must be carried out on them. The following are several common test methods:
3. Compression test

Purpose: To evaluate the deformation degree and recovery ability of the berthing ball when subjected to compression force.

Method: Under laboratory conditions, the berthing ball is placed in a compression device to apply a predetermined pressure, and the deformation of the berthing ball under the action of compression force and the recovery after releasing the pressure are measured. This helps to evaluate the compression resistance and durability of the berthing ball in actual use.

2. Energy absorption test

Purpose: To measure the amount of energy absorbed by the berthing ball when it is impacted.

Method: By simulating the collision situation during the berthing process of the ship, a certain impact force is applied and the energy absorbed by the berthing ball is recorded. This test usually uses special impact test equipment, which can accurately evaluate the energy absorption capacity of the berthing ball and ensure its protective effect in actual operation.

3. Durability test

Purpose: To evaluate the durability and anti-aging performance of the berthing ball in long-term use.

Method: Place the support ball in a simulated marine environment and expose it to ultraviolet rays, salt spray and high humidity for a long time to observe the aging of its materials and performance changes. This test can estimate the life and maintenance requirements of the support ball in actual use.

4. Tear resistance test

Purpose: Test the tear resistance of the support ball when it is subjected to external puncture or cutting force.

Method: Use a dedicated tear test equipment to apply cutting or puncture force to the support ball to evaluate the tear resistance of its material. This test helps to determine the damage resistance of the support ball in harsh environments, especially for inflatable support balls and foam plastic support balls.

5 Compressive strength test

Purpose: Evaluate the compressive strength and rupture point of the support ball when subjected to extreme pressure.

Method: Gradually increase the pressure applied to the support ball until the support ball reaches the rupture or failure point, and record its maximum withstand pressure. This test can determine the maximum working pressure range of the support ball to ensure its safety under high pressure conditions.