PIANC WG211 was tasked with updating the design approach of marine fender systems. While the load-andresistance- factor design approach is widely adopted in the design of marine structures, the PIANC WG33 design guideline utilizes a global safety factor, referred to as the factor for ‘abnormal’ impact. However, it is unclear whether this global safety factor results in an appropriate reliability level. Several aspects of fender system design that significantly influence the fender reliability level do not appear to have been considered by PIANC WG33, such as, reliability targets, the effect of vessel berthing frequency and multiple fender contact. This paper explores the use of statistical data from recorded berthing velocities, fender manufacturer’s data, and other adjustment factors, to establish suggested partial factors of safety for the selection of fenders. The proposed partial energy factors are intended to provide the industry with greater uniformity in the assessment of the reliability level of fender systems and clearer guidance on the recommended design approach than is presently provided. Furthermore, this method can also be used in conjunction with national codes and standards. It is hoped that port authorities and terminal operators may also be able to use the findings of this study to derive greater insight into the reliability of their own fender systems and to optimize service
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The PIANC Guidelines for the Design of Fender Systems: 2002 (WG33) is to be replaced by an updated document, PIANC Fender Guidelines 2024 (WG211). With the preparation and development of PIANC WG211, the issues that should be considered when selecting a fender system deserve as much attention as the design of any other element of the structure of which it is a part. This paper describes the fender selection process as outlined in Chapter 6 of PIANC WG211. The guideline provides background information on the range of factors influencing fender system selection, including estimating key aspects of vessel geometry, assessing multiple fender system contacts, and determining how the design vessel(s) is likely to interact with the proposed fender system. PIANC WG211 introduces the term ‘Base Fender Performance’, and this paper includes an overview of the detailed guidance now provided on the method to calculate and apply the relevant correction factors. It includes a new correction factor associated with accounting for the effect of multiple fender system contacts and the application of partial resistance factors now adopted for the selection of fenders, related to determining fender design performance. This paper also provides details on the updates to design guidance associated with factors affecting hull pressure, including the effect on the selection of fenders and the sizing of fender panels. This paper will provide designers, and others involved with the selection of fenders and fender systems, with a comprehensive overview of the revised and updated guidance, considerations and methodologies now included within WG211.@en