Recommendations for berthing velocity in PIANC WG211

Abstract

With the preparation and development of the updated fender guidelines by PIANC WG211, it is evident that clear and uniform design recommendations for vessel berthing velocities need to be derived, since this is one of the most critical parameters in fender-system design. This paper outlines recommendations on how to ascertain characteristic berthing velocities for fender-system design, both in situations with and without the availability of site-specific information. The new PIANC WG211 fender design guideline advocates using sitespecific information, knowledge and experience where available (for example, utilising berthing records, past service performance, vessel approach speed limits, or the input of pilots and harbour masters) when defining the characteristic berthing velocities. Acknowledging that site-specific information is not always readily available, the PIANC WG211 report also provides recommendations for berthing velocities that can be considered in such circumstances. Furthermore, this paper explains the rationale behind the proposed berthing velocity table, which will serve as a valuable resource in fender-system design when site-specific information is lacking. The recommended characteristic berthing velocities in this study are carefully derived, taking into consideration the berthing velocities recommended in various design guidelines, including PIANC WG33, PIANC WG145, the German EAU2020, BS6349, the Spanish ROM, Japanese OCDI, Indian Standard IS4651, American UFC and MOTEMS. Additionally, this paper incorporates insights from recently published and unpublished berthing velocity records from the United States, Northeast Europe and Korea. The comprehensive examination of available information prompted a reassessment of some historically embedded hypotheses within the fender industry. The key findings resulting from this study significantly contribute to the design and assessment of fender systems. In essence, this paper underlines the crucial role of site-specific information and experience in determining characteristic berthing velocities. Practical recommendations are provided for scenarios where such information is unavailable, emphasising the importance of monitoring and adopting site-specific velocities as effective measures to optimise fender designs.. This approach aims to bridge the gap between theoretical considerations and practical applications in the maritime engineering domain, offering valuable insights for engineers and practitioners involved in fender-system design and assessment.