In the marine industry, pneumatic rubber fenders are among the most commonly used ship protection systems for ship-to-ship (STS) operations, offshore transfers, and port berthing.

Most floating fenders on the market are manufactured in accordance with ISO 17357-1:2014, the international standard that specifies requirements for pneumatic floating fenders, including material properties, dimensions, performance criteria, and testing procedures.

While ISO 17357 certification is important, experienced operators understand that the real reliability of a marine fender system depends on more than simply meeting the basic standard.

During STS transfer operations, fenders are exposed to repeated compression, dynamic loads, and harsh marine environments. Under such conditions, the durability of the rubber compound, the number of reinforcement layers, and the structural integrity of the floating rubber fender become critical factors.

In today’s global market, some manufacturers reduce production costs by lowering the natural rubber content or increasing the proportion of recycled rubber in the compound. Others may reduce the number of cord layers or the wall thickness of the fender body. Although the product may still appear similar externally, these changes can significantly affect the energy absorption capacity and reaction force performance of the pneumatic marine fender.

If a ship-to-ship fender fails during cargo transfer or offshore mooring operations, the consequences can be severe. Vessel damage, cargo loss, and environmental risks may lead to extremely high costs. For this reason, quality control in marine fender manufacturing should never be overlooked.

For more than 20 years, Qingdao Evergreen Maritime has been manufacturing a wide range of marine protection equipment, including pneumatic rubber fenders, foam-filled fenders, marine rubber airbags, and offshore mooring buoys.

Our floating pneumatic fenders are produced according to strict internal standards that go beyond the minimum ISO requirements. Stable natural rubber ratios, reinforced tire-cord layers, and full pressure testing help ensure consistent performance in demanding maritime environments.

With proper maintenance and normal operating conditions, high-quality pneumatic marine fenders can achieve a service life of more than 10 years. To further enhance customer confidence, extended warranty options are available for many projects. In modern ports, offshore terminals, and ship-to-ship transfer operations, reliable marine fender systems play a vital role in protecting vessels, cargo, and infrastructure. Choosing a trusted manufacturer with long-term production experience is often the key to reducing operational risks.