Working Group 211 report began as an update of PIANC MarCom WG 33: ‘Guidelines for the Design of Fenders Systems: 2002’. However, this final report is essentially a new guideline rather than an update. This guideline completely supersedes the WG 33 guideline.
WG 211 provides guidance on designing, manufacturing and testing of fender systems to ensure these fender systems are sufficiently safe for both vessel and berth, reliable, durable and have an optimal TCO. In addition, this guideline aims to enhance the knowledge level surrounding fenders. The guideline includes best practice recommendations and takes into account the latest knowledge.
The guideline focusses on fender systems for seagoing vessels, primarily tug assisted or equipped with thrusters, often supervised by a pilot and in all cases executing controlled berthing manoeuvres. It is not taking into account the design of collisions protection structures (e.g. bridge piers), or guidance like on lock chambers. The guideline can be applied to small seagoing vessels that are not tug assisted or supervised by a pilot. The guideline does not provide design guidance for inland vessels and barges, since these types of vessels often moor against hard structures or even plain concrete walls (lock chambers)
Users cannot simply change WG 33 into WG 211 in their own fender specifications. That will lead to significant cost increases due to a different design approach that has been adopted in WG 211. User specifications will require a full update for the following reasons:
- WG 211 describes the physical process of berthing better than WG 33 resulting in higher velocities, lower berthing angles and multiple fender contact.
- WG 211 puts the safety more in the rubber than in the supporting structure. One has to integrally design the total marine structure, not just the fender system.
- WG 211 strongly recommends the use of site-specific information. Only use the presented velocities when no knowledge on, or data of the site is available. Always talk to pilots, harbourmasters and tug masters if present.
- When site-specific information is used, fenders will be slightly smaller than those determined using WG 33. If local knowledge is ignored, fenders might be over designed.
