At port terminals, the seemingly inconspicuous thin panel positioned between a vessel and the fender during berthing plays a critical role in extending the service life of the protection system. These fender facing panels are crafted from Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE), a material prized for its exceptionally low coefficient of friction and outstanding wear resistance.

In terms of frictional performance, UHMWPE panels boast a coefficient of friction as low as 0.07 to 0.11. This allows vessels to slide smoothly across the panel surface during berthing, effectively minimizing abrasion and damage to both the ship’s hull and the fender. Regarding wear resistance, the material is five times more durable than Nylon 66 and seven times more so than carbon steel; it maintains a smooth, intact surface even under frequent berthing operations, resisting wear and fraying. Furthermore, the material is highly resistant to seawater corrosion and weathering, ensuring it does not easily degrade or age in humid, salt-laden environments. Lightweight and customizable to the specific shape of the fender, these panels can be installed in segments, making the construction process highly efficient.

In practical applications, fender facing panels are attached to rubber fenders or the quay edge to facilitate a "sliding instead of grinding" mechanism. Their purpose is to enhance the durability of the primary impact-absorbing fender body, rather than to serve as an independent anti-collision barrier. Understanding this specific function is essential to leveraging the material's properties effectively. For port operations and maintenance, selecting and utilizing the right facing panels is a pragmatic strategy to extend the overall service life of the protection system.

This article was compiled and edited by Henan Jinhang Engineering Plastics Co., Ltd. (www.upeplastic.cn). Editor: Jinhang. The company specializes in the R&D and production of fender facing panels. Reproduction is permitted, provided the source is cited.