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Trelleborg’s marine and infrastructure operation has been awarded a contract to supply its robust donut fender system, as part of the ongoing maintenance to the Galveston-Port Bolivar ferry, operated by the Texas Department of Transportation in Texas, in the US.

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The project requires a high-capacity, strong and reliable fender system, which will assist in the accurate and safe docking of ferries while withstanding a highly corrosive environment subject to aggressive marine growth.

The ferry service is an integral part of the community and requires regular port maintenance to ensure it continues running, for the transportation of cargo and millions of people across the bay every year.

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After many years of service, the original donut fender system has shown that it is long-lasting and durable and as such, Trelleborg will be providing the Texas Department of Transportation with upgraded, bespoke donut fenders that adhere to their very specific technical requirements.

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Richard Hepworth, President for Trelleborg’s marine and infrastructure operation, commented: “We are honored to remain an integral part of this important and ongoing maintenance project, that will support the continuation of a safe and reliable ferry service for the residents of Galveston Island, the Bolivar Peninsula and the wider community. We are delighted with the award of this contract to install our upgraded donut fenders and believe it showcases our experienced design and engineering capabilities, for marine fender longevity and durability. We look forward to working with Texas Gulf Construction once again.”

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Trelleborg’s donut fender system features superior buoyancy and unsinkable foam that cannot burst or deflate. The fenders float up and down a tubular pile that freely rotates, allowing for ease of vessel alignment or redirection.

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They are an effective solution for simple berthing dolphins, guiding, and turning structures and can be tailored to specific and unique requirements; with additional protection such as rubbing strips to handle ferry beltings, and can be manufactured in bright colors to improve visibility and safety.

These heavy-duty donut fenders have a durable polyurethane reinforced skin with continuous nylon filaments, with internal casing that has long-lasting, low-friction bearings that require very little maintenance. Installation of the fenders is due to take place in early 2021.

Press Release

Source: Maritime Shipping News