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The ISO 17357 pneumatic fender standard specifies requirements for the materials, dimensions, performance, testing, and inspection of floating pneumatic rubber fenders used in marine berthing and mooring operations.
The standard consists of two parts: ISO 17357-1:2014, covering high-pressure pneumatic fenders, and ISO 17357-2:2014, covering low-pressure pneumatic fenders.
This guide explains pneumatic fender classifications, material and construction requirements, performance testing, inspection procedures, and key specifications that buyers should consider when procuring ISO 17357 pneumatic fenders.
ISO 17357 covers floating pneumatic rubber fenders used in marine berthing and mooring operations. ISO 17357-1:2014 applies to high-pressure pneumatic fenders, while ISO 17357-2:2014 covers low-pressure pneumatic fenders.
High-pressure pneumatic fenders under Part 1 are commonly classified by their protective and handling arrangements, including net-type and sling-type configurations.
Type I (Net-Type): Features a protective chain, wire, or fiber net surrounding the rubber fender body. The net may incorporate rubber sleeves or tires to reduce direct abrasion during vessel contact.
Type I Single: A net-type configuration with a flange opening at one end. The opposite end is designed without the same metal end fittings, allowing a different deformation arrangement.
Type II (Sling-Type): Does not use an external protective net. Instead, lifting and suspension arrangements support the fender during installation and operation.
Feature | Type I (Net-Type) | Type II (Sling-Type) |
|---|---|---|
Protective Net | Chain, wire, or fiber net | No external protective net |
Contact Surface | Protective net and associated rubber components | Rubber fender body |
Handling Arrangement | Net and end fittings | Lifting and suspension fittings |
Main Advantage | Additional external protection against wear | No net-related contact or entanglement |
Selection Considerations | Net design, abrasion, inspection, and maintenance | Rubber contact conditions, handling, and suspension |
Typical Applications | STS transfers, ports, offshore berthing | Berthing arrangements where net-free contact is preferred |
The choice between Type I and Type II pneumatic fenders depends on vessel contact conditions, handling requirements, installation arrangements, and project specifications.
ISO 17357-1 identifies two common initial inflation pressure ratings for high-pressure pneumatic fenders:
Classification | Initial Inflation Pressure | Performance Consideration |
|---|---|---|
Pneumatic 50 | 50 kPa | Lower reaction force than the corresponding 80 kPa version under comparable conditions |
Pneumatic 80 | 80 kPa | Higher energy absorption and reaction force for the same nominal size |
A higher initial inflation pressure generally increases energy absorption, but it also increases reaction force. The appropriate rating should be selected using verified performance data and project-specific berthing requirements.
ISO 17357-1:2014 specifies material and construction requirements for high-pressure floating pneumatic rubber fenders. The basic fender body consists of an outer rubber layer, synthetic-tyre-cord reinforcement, and an inner rubber layer, which are vulcanized together.
These components work together to protect the fender against external wear, maintain internal air pressure, and support repeated compression during marine berthing operations.
The outer and inner rubber layers perform different functions in a pneumatic fender.
Outer Rubber: Protects the reinforcement layers against abrasion, weathering, and external mechanical forces.
Inner Rubber: Provides an airtight barrier to maintain the fender's internal air pressure.
The following table summarizes selected rubber material requirements referenced in ISO 17357-1:2014 for conventional black rubber compounds.
Test Property | Outer Rubber | Inner Rubber |
|---|---|---|
Tensile Strength | ≥18 MPa | ≥10 MPa |
Elongation at Break | ≥400% | ≥400% |
Hardness | 60 ± 10 Shore A | 50 ± 10 Shore A |
Tear Strength | ≥400 N/cm | Not specified |
Compression Set | ≤30% | Not specified |
Rubber materials are also evaluated for properties such as resistance to ageing and ozone exposure using applicable test methods.
These material requirements help assess the suitability of rubber compounds for high-pressure pneumatic fenders. Actual product compliance should be verified through material test reports and the applicable ISO standard.
Synthetic-tyre-cord reinforcement is an essential component of high-pressure pneumatic fenders manufactured according to ISO 17357-1:2014. The reinforcing layers help maintain internal air pressure and distribute mechanical loads during compression.
Unlike conventional woven canvas fabric, synthetic tyre cord has a primarily unidirectional fiber structure, reducing friction between intersecting reinforcement threads during repeated deformation.
ISO 17357-1:2014 specifies synthetic-tyre-cord reinforcement and does not permit conventional canvas fabric as a substitute for the reinforcement layers in high-pressure pneumatic fenders.
This construction supports pressure retention, flexibility, and fatigue resistance in demanding marine berthing applications.
Bead rings and flange assemblies help secure the reinforcement layers and maintain the structural integrity and airtightness of high-pressure pneumatic fenders. Flange openings also provide access for inflation valves and other specified fittings.
Under ISO 17357-1:2014, the diameter of bead rings or other steel components surrounding the flange opening must be less than 20% of the nominal fender diameter (0.20D). The applicable end-fitting arrangement depends on the fender type and construction.
Proper bead ring and flange design is important for maintaining pressure integrity and accommodating fender deformation during operation.
Together, the rubber layers, synthetic-tyre-cord reinforcement, and end fittings form the structural foundation of high-pressure pneumatic fenders. Their material properties and assembly quality must be verified through appropriate testing and inspection procedures.
ISO 17357-1 sets strict performance criteria and testing methods to ensure high-pressure pneumatic fenders meet safety and durability requirements during ship berthing and mooring. These tests confirm the fender's ability to absorb energy, withstand repeated compression, and maintain airtightness.
Guaranteed Energy Absorption (GEA) and Reaction Force (RF) are two key performance indicators for high-pressure pneumatic fenders under ISO 17357-1:2014.
GEA: The minimum specified energy absorption capacity, measured in kilojoules (kJ). The standard specifies GEA values at 60 ± 5% deflection.
RF: The force generated by the fender at the specified GEA deflection, measured in kilonewtons (kN). ISO 17357-1:2014 specifies a reaction force tolerance of ±10% at this point.
Both parameters must be evaluated together. A fender should provide sufficient energy absorption while maintaining reaction forces compatible with the vessel's structural limitations.
For detailed dimensions and performance comparisons, refer to our Pneumatic Fender Size Chart.
ISO 17357-1:2014 specifies prototype testing to verify the performance and durability of high-pressure pneumatic fender designs before commercial application.
The main prototype testing procedures include:
Test | Purpose |
|---|---|
Parallel Compression Test | Evaluates energy absorption and reaction force under controlled compression. |
Angular Compression Test | Assesses fender performance under angled compression conditions. |
Durability Test | Evaluates resistance to repeated compression, including 3,000 compression cycles. |
Compression-Recovery Test | Checks the fender's ability to recover its dimensions after compression. |
Puncture-Resistance Test | Evaluates resistance to localized puncture loads. |
Prototype performance confirmation should follow the applicable ISO 17357-1 test procedures. The standard requires performance confirmation of prototype fender testing at 10-year intervals, with the results evaluated by a major classification society.
Successful prototype testing helps demonstrate that a fender design meets the relevant performance requirements under defined test conditions.
In addition to prototype testing, ISO 17357-1:2014 specifies testing and inspection procedures for commercially manufactured high-pressure pneumatic fenders.
These procedures help verify material properties, dimensions, airtightness, and structural integrity before delivery.
Test / Inspection | Main Requirement | Inspection Frequency |
|---|---|---|
Rubber Material Testing | Verify specified physical properties of the inner and outer rubber layers | According to the applicable material test schedule |
Dimensional Inspection | Check nominal diameter and length at the specified initial inflation pressure | Every fender |
Air-Leakage Test | Maintain the specified initial pressure for more than 30 minutes without air leakage | Every fender |
Hydrostatic-Pressure Test | Apply the specified test pressure for 10 minutes and inspect for leakage, defects, and dimensional changes | One per 20 fenders of each size and pressure rating, subject to the applicable order requirements |
Dimensional Tolerances: ISO 17357-1:2014 specifies dimensional tolerances of +10% / −5% for both fender diameter and length.
Test results and inspection documentation should be reviewed against the applicable ISO 17357-1 requirements and the manufacturer's product specifications.
Quality assurance for ISO 17357 pneumatic fenders involves verifying material properties, product dimensions, performance test results, and identification records. Proper inspection and documentation help buyers evaluate product quality and compliance with applicable project requirements.
Independent third-party inspection provides additional verification of pneumatic fender quality, particularly for demanding marine applications such as LNG terminals, offshore facilities, and ship-to-ship (STS) operations.
Depending on project requirements, inspection may be arranged through recognized organizations such as Bureau Veritas (BV), DNV, ABS, or Lloyd's Register.
Third-party inspection may include:
Reviewing material certificates and test reports
Witnessing specified performance or pressure tests
Checking fender dimensions and product markings
Verifying compliance with agreed technical specifications
Third-party inspection requirements, scope, and acceptance criteria should be clearly defined in the procurement documents.
Product identification and traceability are important elements of pneumatic fender quality assurance.
Fender markings and documentation should identify relevant information, including:
Manufacturer's name or trademark
Fender type and nominal dimensions
Initial inflation pressure rating
Manufacturing date
Serial or batch identification number
Buyers should also request applicable material certificates, prototype test documentation, and commercial fender test reports.
These records support product identification, inspection, maintenance planning, and verification against purchasing specifications.
When purchasing ISO 17357 pneumatic fenders, clear technical specifications help ensure that the selected product meets the vessel's berthing requirements and the project's inspection expectations.
Buyers should identify the applicable ISO standard, fender type, dimensions, initial inflation pressure, performance requirements, and supporting documentation before placing an order.
The following information should be included in a pneumatic fender purchase specification or RFQ (Request for Quotation).
Specification | Information to Provide |
|---|---|
Applicable Standard | ISO 17357-1:2014 for high-pressure fenders, or ISO 17357-2:2014 for low-pressure fenders |
Fender Type | Type I (Net-Type), Type I Single, or Type II (Sling-Type), as applicable |
Nominal Dimensions | Diameter × Length (D × L), in millimeters |
Initial Inflation Pressure | 50 kPa or 80 kPa for applicable Part 1 fenders |
Performance Requirements | Required Guaranteed Energy Absorption (GEA) and maximum acceptable Reaction Force (RF) |
Safety Valve | Requirements based on fender dimensions, design, and applicable standard |
Installation Requirements | Lifting, suspension, and connection arrangements |
Inspection Requirements | Manufacturer testing and any specified third-party inspection |
Technical Documentation | Applicable material certificates, test reports, and product identification records |
A clear procurement specification may be written as follows:
Product: High-Pressure Pneumatic Rubber Fender
Applicable Standard: ISO 17357-1:2014
Nominal Size: 3,300 × 6,500 mm (Diameter × Length)
Fender Type: Type II (Sling-Type)
Initial Inflation Pressure: 50 kPa (Pneumatic 50)
Performance Requirements: Guaranteed Energy Absorption and Reaction Force according to the approved technical specification.
Safety Valve: As required by the applicable standard and approved fender design.
Inspection: Manufacturer's inspection and testing documentation, with independent third-party inspection if specified in the purchase agreement.
Documentation: Product specifications, applicable material certificates, inspection reports, and identification records.
This example is provided for procurement reference. Final specifications should be confirmed against the project requirements and verified manufacturer data.
Providing complete technical requirements helps manufacturers evaluate the application, recommend suitable pneumatic fender configurations, and prepare accurate quotations.
An ISO 17357 pneumatic fender is a floating pneumatic rubber fender designed and evaluated according to the applicable ISO 17357 standard. The standard covers material properties, construction, performance, testing, and inspection requirements for marine berthing and mooring applications.
ISO 17357-1:2014 covers high-pressure floating pneumatic rubber fenders, commonly specified with initial inflation pressures of 50 kPa or 80 kPa.
ISO 17357-2:2014 applies to low-pressure floating pneumatic rubber fenders, which have different construction and performance requirements.
The appropriate standard depends on the fender design and operating requirements.
Type I (Net-Type) pneumatic fenders have an external protective net that helps protect the rubber body against abrasion and mechanical contact.
Type II (Sling-Type) pneumatic fenders do not have an external protective net and use lifting or suspension arrangements for handling and installation.
The selection depends on vessel contact conditions, environmental exposure, and installation requirements.
Third-party inspection is not automatically required for every pneumatic fender purchase. However, buyers may specify independent inspection by recognized organizations such as DNV, Bureau Veritas, ABS, or Lloyd's Register.
The inspection scope, acceptance criteria, and documentation requirements should be agreed upon before production or delivery.
ISO 17357-1:2014 specifies periodic confirmation of prototype performance testing at 10-year intervals.
This requirement concerns prototype design verification and should not be interpreted as a fixed 10-year service life for individual pneumatic fenders.
Pneumatic fender pricing depends on nominal dimensions, fender type, inflation pressure rating, protective net configuration, customization requirements, inspection arrangements, and order quantity.
For an accurate quotation, buyers should provide the required fender size, type, performance specifications, and documentation requirements.
Understanding the ISO 17357 pneumatic fender standard helps marine operators, engineers, and procurement teams evaluate fender types, material requirements, performance ratings, and inspection procedures.
When specifying pneumatic fenders, buyers should consider the applicable ISO standard, fender dimensions, initial inflation pressure, energy absorption, reaction force, and required test documentation.
Hongruntong Marine offers pneumatic fender solutions for ship-to-ship transfers, port berthing, and offshore applications.
Explore our Pneumatic Fender Products or contact our team to discuss your technical requirements and request a quotation.
