Fender

A fender is the energy-absorbing system at a berth that protects both ship and structure during berthing and while moored. The fender absorbs the vessel’s kinetic energy on approach and limits the reaction force transmitted to the quay. PIANC WG211 (2022) is the current design guideline, superseding the older WG33 and incorporating the berthing-velocity work of WG145; it sets out the berthing-energy calculation, the partial factors, and the selection of rubber, pneumatic, or foam units sized to the design ship.