The Difference Between Foam Fenders And Inflatable Fenders

Foam fenders and inflatable fenders are both equipment used to protect ships when berthing or unberthing. They have some differences in form, function and purpose:

1. Form and structure:
   Foam Fender: Usually made of polyurethane material, it appears as a cushioning device between the fender sleeve and the sidewall of the ship connected by ropes or chains.
   Inflatable fender: It is a spherical device, usually made of materials such as rubber or plastic, connected to the dock or fixed facilities through ropes or chains to provide buffering and protection.
2. Function:
   Foam fender: The main function is to provide cushioning and protection, reduce the impact between the ship and the dock or other ships, and prevent damage.
   Inflatable fenders: The main function is to provide buffering and support when the ship is berthing or moored, to prevent direct contact between the hull and the dock or other ships, and to play a protective role.
3. Installation and use:
   Foam fender: It is installed at a fixed position on the side wall of the ship and usually needs to be connected and fixed with the side wall of the ship.
   Inflatable fenders: can be installed on docks or other fixed facilities as needed and fixed by ropes or chains.
4. Scope of application:
   Foam fender: Suitable for berthing and unberthing operations of various types of ships, commonly found in ports, docks and other places.
   Inflatable fenders: Mainly used for berthing and mooring of large ships and passenger ships to provide additional cushioning and protection.

Generally speaking, foam fenders and inflatable fenders are both equipment designed to protect ships and dock structures, but their form, structure and specific functions are slightly different. In actual use, appropriate equipment is selected according to the needs and specific conditions of the ship, and installed and used in accordance with relevant regulations.