Marine plastic fender pads, also known as polyethylene fender pads, are plastic buffer materials installed on docks, locks or hulls to absorb impact and protect ships and structures from damage. They are usually made of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE) or high-density polyethylene (HDPE).
- The main functions of marine plastic fenders
Absorb collision impact and reduce damage to the hull and dock
Reduce friction coefficient to make the ship berthing and sliding smoother
Anti-corrosion and anti-seawater, replacing traditional rubber wood boards or metal materials
Weather-resistant and wear-resistant, increasing the service life of the fender system - Comparison of common materials
Material Characteristics Recommended use
UHMW-PE Extremely wear-resistant, low friction coefficient, impact-resistant Large ship dock fender panels
HDPE Moderately priced, corrosion-resistant, easy to process Small and medium-sized docks or simple fenders
Rubber fenders Elastic, good energy absorption, but easy to age Used in combination with plastic fenders - Common specifications and parameters of fenders (customizable)
Item Common range
Material UHMW-PE / HDPE
Density 0.94 – 1.0 g/cm³
Friction coefficient 0.1 – 0.2 (both dry and wet environments)
Using temperature -100°C ~ +80°C
Thickness 20mm – 150mm (customizable and thicker)
Size 300×500mm, 500×1000mm, etc.
Installation method Bolt through-hole fixing, U-shaped groove embedded
IV. Advantages of marine fenders
Strong wear resistance – service life far exceeds traditional materials such as rubber and wood
Low friction coefficient – ships berth smoothly, reducing traction load
UV resistance, aging resistance – suitable for strong sunshine areas at the seaside
Corrosion resistance – resists seawater, salt spray, acid and alkali erosion
Customizable colors – common black, blue, green, support a variety of customized logos