OFFSHORE MOORING ISLAND FOR SUPERTANKERS

This article is concerned primarily with the evaluation of a retractable marine fender intended for application to offshore supertanker terminals. As a basis for the evaluation, the fendering system is examined for the case of a fixed mooring island concept consisting of mooring dolphins, berthing platforms, and appurtenant structures. The design of the resilient marine fender, utilizing gravity and friction, is described. For illustrative design purposes, the computations for the kinetic energy transmitted by a supertanker are based on a tanker of 135,000 tons displacement with a berth approach speed of 1.0 ft/sec. The energy absorption capacity of both the breasting platform with fender system and the flexible breasting dolphin with fender system, including supporting structures, are examined. As a preliminary comparison to conventional spring or rubber buffer fenders, the retractable fender would not require a massive platform structure to cope with comparable mooring forces. Furthermore, the mutual impact forces on the ship are reduced considerably. Advantages to be realized by utilizing the retractable fender system includes economy of materials, reduced permanent damage potential to both carrier and berthing facilities, and the desirable energy dissipation mechanism (with a minimum of supporting structure deformation).

  • Corporate Authors:

    American Society of Civil Engineers

    345 East 47th Street
    New York, NY  United States  10017-2398
  • Authors:
    • Blancato, V
    • Finger, J H
  • Publication Date: 1962-11

Media Info

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00048048
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Source Agency: National Maritime Research Center, Galveston
  • Report/Paper Numbers: 3311 Proceeding
  • Files: TRIS
  • Created Date: Oct 31 1974 12:00AM