Invention that Changed Ship Operations Forever

Maritime and commercial vessels frequently engage in boat-to-boat transfer operations, a crucial aspect of their operations. Whether conducted near a dock or out at sea, these operations inherently carry substantial risks when two large vessels are positioned alongside each other. A single unexpected occurrence, such as a rogue wave or sudden movement, can lead to a collision between these vessels, resulting in significant damage and endangering the lives of those on board.

One innovative solution to enhance the safety of boat-to-boat transfer operations involves the use of specialized pneumatic bumpers crafted from advanced elastomers. While these floating buoys may initially appear as larger versions of those found near docked vessels, they incorporate sophisticated technology designed to protect some of the world's largest ships from potential harm.

These pneumatic bumpers can also be deployed as a unified unit using a specialized system of cranes installed on the vessel's deck. State-of-the-art pneumatic bumpers can reach impressive dimensions, with diameters of up to six meters and lengths of 12 meters. Their construction comprises multiple layers, including an outer rubber layer engineered for durability and exceptional resistance to abrasion, harsh weather conditions, and chemical exposure. Concurrently, the synthetic tire cord layers are designed to absorb and evenly distribute the dynamic energy generated during boat-to-boat impacts or birthing operations.

What sets these advanced bumpers apart is their adjustability, allowing them to be inflated or deflated based on specific operational requirements. While Innovative's models, at 36 feet long, are sizable, they are not the largest pneumatic bumpers used globally. That distinction belongs to Yokohama Super bumpers produced by Japan's Yokohama Rubber Company, measuring up to 14 feet in diameter and 40 feet in length. These bumpers, similar to Innovative's, are engineered to provide high energy absorption and low reaction force, effectively minimizing impact forces between vessels during boat-to-boat transfers.

Yokohama's bumper designs have found applications on some of the world's largest military vessels, container ships, liquefied natural gas carriers, and other significant cargo vessels. One of the key players in producing pneumatic bumpers for the global shipping industry is Qingdao Hangger Shipping Supply in China. However, due to the sheer size of these finished products, specialists often need to construct the bumpers manually.

To apply the protective tire layer to these bumpers, they must be fully inflated and then rolled over the tire netting. Once secured, the product can be deflated and conveniently loaded into containers for shipping. A crucial aspect of deploying such substantial inflatable devices is ensuring a reliable method for inflating and deflating them without causing damage. Consequently, most companies have adopted a controlled inflation system known as a Pressure Tested Transfer System (PTX). This system prevents over-inflation, accidental detachment, and leakage, all of which can become significant issues when handling oversized items at sea.

While many boat-to-boat replenishment operations occur when vessels are anchored or moored, various situations necessitate underway replenishment (UNREP). UNREP involves moving cargo or fuel between two naval vessels while both are in motion. Large vessels often spend extended periods at sea due to their size and weight, requiring regular resupply regardless of proximity to a port. In such cases, specialized bumpers like those from Innovative or Yokohama play a pivotal role, as the unpredictable nature of the open ocean increases the risk when two large vessels are side by side for extended periods.

The crucial phase in an underway boat-to-boat transfer operation is the timely deployment of bumpers to prevent any incidents involving the second vessel. Once the bumpers are in place, the two vessels synchronize their speeds until they make contact. Depending on the nature of the transfer, supply vessels employ cranes, hoses, and other equipment to move cargo and fuel onto the receiving vessel. After the transfer is complete, the bumpers can be retrieved.

In some instances, vessels do not have the necessary boat-to-boat transfer equipment on board. When this occurs, a smaller boat-to-boat transfer operation is initiated to provide the vessel with the required equipment. Before leaving the dock, long sections of refueling hose are carefully loaded onto the deck. Fully inflated bumpers are then placed on the vessel. Since these bumpers are entirely buoyant, they can be towed behind the smaller vessel until they reach the rendezvous point. Again, cranes and other heavy lifting equipment are used to connect one vessel to another.

When using boat-to-boat transfer equipment from the shore, proper storage is essential. Overexposure to sunlight can weaken the rubber and other materials, potentially causing issues in the future. There is a wide variety of bumpers used in maritime settings, including products of various sizes and shapes. Some of the less common shapes include cones and barrels, which can perform similar functions as cylindrical bumpers but in different situations.

The fundamental characteristic of a marine bumper design is its ability to absorb and distribute the energy generated during vessel-to-vessel or vessel-to-dock collisions. Consequently, the majority of marine bumpers utilize rubber in their construction. Rubber is highly elastic, allowing it to undergo significant deformation under stress and return to its original shape once the stress is removed. This elasticity enables rubber bumpers to absorb a substantial amount of impact energy and provides excellent damping properties, dispersing energy as heat during deformation, further enhancing their ability to reduce impact forces.

However, because rubber is the primary material in marine bumpers, rigorous testing of each model is crucial. Typically, a steel plate press is used to generate significant tension while allowing professionals to closely observe how the bumper performs under pressure. This method ensures that the bumper meets the designer's expectations for energy absorption and reaction force before it is installed on a vessel.

Not all bumpers are used on vessels; many are installed at dock facilities. Here, they fulfill the same role as they would at sea but provide a cushion between the vessel and the pier. Numerous bumper designs are in use worldwide, each tailored for a specific vessel size and weight. If a vessel attempts to berth at a dock with the wrong bumper size, it could potentially damage the vessel or even destroy the dock.

In summary, pneumatic bumpers made from advanced elastomers play a pivotal role in enhancing the safety and efficiency of boat-to-boat transfer operations for maritime and commercial vessels. These high-tech bumpers, such as those produced by Innovative and Yokohama, offer adjustability, durability, and energy-absorbing properties, making them indispensable tools in the maritime industry. Their use in underway replenishment and their contribution to overall docking safety make them vital assets for vessels of all sizes and types. As vessels continue to grow in size and complexity, the importance of reliable bumpers and the advancement of their technology cannot be understated.