D Fenders

D fenders are commonly used for marine applications to protect boats and other vessels from damage when they come into contact with docks or other structures. The curved shape of the fender helps to distribute the force of impact, reducing the risk of damage to the vessel.

The D Fender (also marketed as Dock D Fender, Marine D Fender, D Fender Bumper or Boat D Fender) is a classic, space-efficient rubber fender designed for protecting quay walls, piers, jetties and small craft. Its D-shaped cross-section delivers a large flat contact face, good energy absorption and low reaction force — an ideal solution where limited gap and predictable berthing behavior are required.

Manufactured for maritime, commercial and recreational applications, D fenders combine durable rubber compounds with practical mounting options to provide reliable vessel-to-structure protection and long service life.

Characteristics

• Compact D-Shape Profile — Flat face for broad contact, minimal projection from the structure, ideal for narrow berthing pockets and dock edges.

• Excellent Energy Absorption — Designed to absorb impact energy while limiting reaction force transmitted to hulls and quay walls.

• Durable Construction — Marine-grade rubber compounds resist ozone, UV, saltwater and abrasion for extended service life.

• Simple Installation — Multiple fixing options (through-bolt, backing plate, rope or chain mounting) suit new builds and retrofits.

• Low Maintenance — Tough elastomeric material reduces repair frequency and lifecycle cost.

• Versatile Sizes — Range of heights and thicknesses to protect everything from small boats to workboats and service vessels.

• Cost-Effective Protection — Competitive price-per-meter compared with more complex fender systems.

Applications

• Marina berths and floating docks (boat D fender)

• Ferry landings and small-craft terminals

• Commercial quays, service pontoons and workboat berths

• Lock chambers and canal moorings

• Temporary berthing arrangements and retrofit protection

Technical Data

Dimensions

Performance Curve

Detailed Photos

Typical Technical Specifications

Final selection should be based on vessel size, berthing energy and berth geometry.

• Material: SBR / NR (standard) or CR / EPDM (optional for enhanced chemical/UV resistance)

• Profile: D-section (flat front face, curved rear)

• Face Width: 80 mm – 350 mm (model dependent)

• Overall Height: 50 mm – 600 mm

• Thickness (base): 40 mm – 300 mm

• Energy Absorption: varies by size — consult sizing table for kN·m values

• Reaction Force: optimized by profile; lower than equivalent square-section bumpers

• Mounting Options:

  • Through-bolt (with steel backing plate)

  • Adhesive/chemical fix for low-load applications

  • Rope / chain lash-up for floating docks

• Operating Temp: −20°C to +70°C (material dependent)

• Service Life: 8–20 years (site and maintenance dependent)

Installation Guidance

1. Select D Fender size according to vessel displacement, berthing speed and desired stand-off.

2. Prepare backing structure — plate thickness and anchor pattern must match fender loads.

3. For through-bolt installation use marine-grade stainless fasteners and protective backing plates.

4. For floating docks, use rope/chain mounting with chafe protection.

5. Ensure correct compression and alignment — avoid over-tightening which reduces energy absorption.

Why Choose Hongruntong Marine?

• Direct Manufacturer Supply — Competitive pricing, fast lead times and full customization of size, compound and mounting.

• Engineering Support — Berth impact assessment, fender selection guidance and shop drawings for install teams.

• Quality Control — Compound testing, dimensional control and batch traceability for consistent performance.

• Global Logistics & After-sales — Export packaging, spare parts and maintenance support worldwide.

Quality & Service

• Produced under ISO-aligned quality systems.

• Material certificates and test reports available on request.

• Optional FAT (Factory Acceptance Test) and third-party inspection for critical projects.

• Spare parts, replacement skins and installation kits supplied.

FAQ

Q1: What is the difference between a D Fender and a simple rubber bumper?
A1: D Fenders have a D-shaped cross section giving a broad, flat face for vessel contact with improved energy absorption and reduced projection — better for constrained berths than basic block bumpers.

Q2: Can D fenders be used on floating docks and boats?
A2: Yes. For floating docks and small craft, rope or chain mounting and smaller profile D fenders (boat D fender) are common and effective.

Q3: How do I choose the correct D fender size?
A3: Provide vessel size, maximum berthing speed, and berth layout. We’ll perform a sizing check (energy & reaction) and recommend a model.

Q4: Are custom compounds or colors available?
A4: Yes — we offer alternative rubber compounds (for chemical/UV resistance) and color options for visibility or branding.

Q5: What maintenance is required?
A5: Periodic visual inspections for cuts, wear and attachment integrity; replace damaged units or securing hardware as required.