Ocean Guard™ Pneumatic Fenders

Ocean Guard™ pneumatic fenders are built for demanding marine environments where reliable energy absorption and hull protection are critical. These fenders use compressed air to create a cushion between vessels or between a vessel and a dock, helping to prevent damage during berthing and mooring operations. Marine Fenders International supplies these pneumatic systems to ports, offshore platforms, and naval installations that require consistent performance and durability. In berthing situations involving vessels with unusual hull geometries, such as submarines, hydropneumatic fenders may also be applied alongside pneumatic systems for underwater positioning.

Ocean Guard™ pneumatic fenders operate using an internal pressure system that compresses air during contact with a vessel, absorbing kinetic energy and reducing the force transmitted to both structures. This makes them suitable for ship-to-ship transfers, LNG terminals, and emergency docking scenarios. Compared to foam-filled fenders, pneumatic systems can offer higher energy absorption for the same size and are particularly effective in high tidal variation areas. 

For specific underwater berthing needs, hydropneumatic fenders are often used in conjunction with surface-level pneumatic fenders to maintain protection below the waterline.

Each pneumatic fender is constructed with layers of high-strength tire-cord material encased in a thick rubber skin. This configuration provides structural stability while resisting abrasion and environmental wear. Standard components include end flanges with inflation and deflation valves, safety pressure relief valves, and optional chain and tire nets or rope nets depending on the application. Ocean Guard™ pneumatic fenders are available in a range of diameters and lengths to meet port and vessel requirements, with customized options available upon request.

These fenders are deployed at oil terminals, dry bulk facilities, container ports, and naval bases. Their design allows them to perform reliably in locations with strong currents, tidal changes, or repeated berthing cycles. LNG carriers, oil tankers, cruise ships, and naval vessels often rely on pneumatic systems to maintain safe contact with berthing surfaces. Where vessels have deep hulls or berthing occurs below the surface, hydropneumatic fenders provide underwater support, helping maintain vessel alignment and safety.

Pneumatic fenders offer high energy absorption with low reaction force, reducing stress on both the vessel and dock structure. They are buoyant, corrosion-resistant, and easy to install. The fenders can be deflated for transport or storage and re-inflated on-site, making them suitable for permanent installations as well as temporary deployments during ship repair or fleet reconfiguration.

We supply a complete range of accessories, including mooring chains, shackles, towing rings, quick-release hooks, and inflation kits. As part of our broader floating fender solutions, we also offer Ocean Guard™ netless foam-filled fenders and Ocean Cushion™ foam-filled fenders with chain and tire nets, which provide alternative protection options for different berthing conditions and can be used alongside floating camels  in certain marine construction or port maintenance projects.

Ocean Guard™ hydropneumatic fenders are tested according to U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, and ISO 17357-1:2014 guidelines. Third-party testing and certification can be provided based on project specifications.

For technical drawings, sizing guidance, or to request a quote, contact us today. Our specialists are available to support your project from initial planning through final delivery.