How does weather and wind truly impact your choice of fender? Can it be crucial for how long your fender stays ‘fit for fight?’
This article explores how different climatic conditions should guide your choice of fenders.
After just a few minutes of reading, you will be equipped with the knowledge you need to make an as an informed decision as possible.
Wondering about more than just how weather and wind come into play? Get your copy of the e-book ‘10 Things to Consider Before Choosing Fender Solutions.’
Weather, Wind and Fender Choice
The Type of Weather and Its Influence
- Constant Pressure: In areas with constant pressure on fenders, numerous small fenders may be sufficient. Especially in protected harbours where boats are stable.
- Unstable Conditions: For docks where boats ‘chase’ (move in and out), larger fenders are necessary to absorb varying pressure. In some cases, you might get by with fewer fenders when going up in size.
Factors at Play
- Corrosion and Wear: During periods of rough weather and wind, it is crucial to closely monitor wear, especially where the fenders rub against other surfaces. This can cause compromised fenders, which over time makes them less effective.
- Mooring Solutions: In weather-exposed areas, mooring should be stronger and more robust. To handle increased stress and movement, more and stronger fenders may be necessary.
Weather and Wind: Direct and Indirect Impact
- Temperature: In cold climates, the air in air-filled fenders will contract, which requires adjustments of the air pressure to maintain efficiency.
- Tide/Currents: Currents can cause increased pressure and movement of the fenders, affecting the choice of mooring solutions and fender type.
Fender Type and Climatic Challenges
- Small Fenders: Small fenders may be inadequate in areas with significant tidal differences, as they are prone to slip under the dock at low tide, especially in bad weather.
- Currents and Wind: In areas with strong currents and wind, specialised fenders designed to withstand that kind of stress may be necessary.
Takeaway
Choosing the right fender is an art form that requires a thorough understanding of local climatic conditions. It is not just the size and type of fender that matter but also how it interacts with the environment it operates in.
- Customised Solution: Tailoring the fender solution to the specific conditions at your location is essential.
- Weather-Aware Design: Choose fender types designed to withstand local weather conditions, whether it is powerful gusts of wind, strong currents or extreme temperature variations.
- Safety and Efficiency: A well-chosen fender not only ensures safety for ships and infrastructure but will also be cost-effective over time.
To ensure that you choose the fender best suited to your needs, it is important to consider all these aspects. If you want an in-depth understanding of how to choose the right fender solution, download our e-book ’10 Things to Consider Before Choosing Fender Solutions’ or get in touch.
