Archived Press Releases

Page 4

Oct., 2006

INFLATABLE FENDERS GET A REAL WORKOUT

        Every boater knows that fenders protect the boat's gunnels and hull from damage.  But Aeré inflatable fenders found a unique application on the 235' MV Fairweather.  Powered by four 4,827-hp diesel engines and four waterjets, the catamaran-hulled Fairweather is one of Alaska Marine Highway's new fleet of fast vehicle ferries operating in southeast Alaska.

Launched in 2004, the 42-knot vessel developed engine problems that forced replacement of all cylinder sleeves.  Rather than removing the engines for re-boring, service technicians decided to conduct repairs onboard while the vessel was docked.  Twelve, 4' x 5' Aeré fenders were used to isolate the Fairweather from the dock during machining operations.

        Paul Johnsen of Alaska Marine Highway System explained, "We were experiencing sharp impacts when the vessel contacted the dock on heavy weather days in Ketchikan, Alaska.  The engine technicians informed us these impacts would cause their in-place machine tool to chatter, so work would need to stop during rough wave conditions.  The Aeré fenders were purchased to provide maximum cushion so that work could continue, regardless of weather." 

Because the inflatable fenders would spread the forces without damaging the side of the hull, the Aeré fender system was recommended by the ship builder to protect the vessel's lightweight aluminum hull.  "During the machining, we experienced no lost days due to bad weather," Johnson said.

The repairs, which took 10 weeks, were recently completed and the Fairweather is scheduled to be back in regular service on June 1, 2006.

Sept., 2006

INFLATABLE FENDERS SAVE SPACE AND PROVIDE PROTECTION

        Bad docking, careless neighbors and rafting with other boats can all result in damage.  Boaters recognize the need for fenders, but finding ways to store them isn't easy, usually resulting in fenders that are too small.  Inflatable fenders from Aeré solve both problems by providing the protection boat owners require while saving necessary space.

        Aeré fenders come in over 20 sizes to accommodate nearly any craft and situation.  Boaters can use larger fenders to guard against damage from rough walls in a lock, or use longer fenders vertically to protect a smaller boat from rubbing against a larger one while rafted.  Hanging the fenders horizontally provides a buffer between the hull and a floating dock.

Because they inflate and deflate in seconds and are lightweight, any member of the crew can handle the fenders.  Sizes range from

12" x 29" to 4' x 20', and require little storage space because they deflate and fold up.  Aeré fenders are made of durable material using high-quality air valves and come in a variety of colors to fully customize the look of any boat.

Flat inflatable fenders are also available.  Constructed of heavy-duty materials, they are similar to fender boards and help to protect the stern or swim platform when docking stern-to, rafting stern-to-stern with another boat or preventing smaller craft from damaging the platform while alongside.  The fender's design prevents it from rolling under or on top of the dock or platform. 

The flat fender is relatively thin, which permits a small step from the tender or small craft to the platform.  Because most models come with stainless steel "D" rings on each end and more on one edge, the fenders attach securely and easily.  Aeré flat fenders range from an 8' x 1' model to a 16' x 2' model.  All flat fenders are 8" thick and come in dark gray with a black wear face. 

Sept., 2006

COVERS PROTECT FENDERS AND GELCOAT FROM DAMAGE

        Boatbuilders are now using a variety of hull colors instead of traditional white gelcoat, and scratches and rubbing from fenders meant to protect the craft can mean extensive and expensive repair work.  Fenda Sox^® , available from Aeré, help boat owners protect the color of their hulls and the gelcoat beneath from damage.

        The Fenda Sox are constructed of heavy-duty, acrylic fabric in a tight loop knit, which combines a hardwearing resilience with a soft, cushioned surface.  They slip easily over most traditional fenders and a drawstring closure makes using and removing the Sox quick and easy.  Because the fabrics are machine washable, keeping Fenda Sox shipshape becomes just another load of laundry.

        Fenda Sox save space and provide protection, too.  Because they're made of flexible, breathable fabric, they can be rolled or folded away when not in use.  The strength and size of the Sox ward off bad docking situations and careless neighbors.

        Available in over 26 sizes and two shapes, and in several colors for easy coordination, the Sox allow boaters to more fully customize the appearance of their crafts.  Owners can choose Sox that fit Aeré inflatable fenders from 12" x 29" up to their 4' x 20' dual-chambered models, and most standard fenders from 8" x 20" thru the largest ball type fenders.

Fenda Sox also increase the life of fenders by keeping them clean and protecting them from damaging UV rays.  Additional benefits include the elimination of fender squeak so boat owners can enjoy peaceful nights at the dock or rafted to another boat.