Innovation Fends Off The Perils Of Time

Ships berthing at Associated British Ports’ Quay 12 in Hull are now assured of a smoother experience thanks to a two-handed exercise in innovation.

HBPW and A.Torn Construction were called in by ABP after it became apparent that Quay 12’s fenders were in need of replacement.

HBPW’s Managing Partner, Paul Withers, takes up the story.

“Fenders are essentially bumpers designed to absorb the kinetic energy of a vessel berthing against a jetty, quay or, indeed, another vessel and, in doing so, prevent damage to boats and berthing structures,

“So, when it became apparent that Quay 12’s fenders were in desperate need of replacement following decades of shipping impact, we were called in to analyse the problem from an engineering and construction perspective.”

However, it was not a straightforward process.

“Quay 12 was built in the 1950’s and not only had its fenders been pounded into non–existence from years of impact from shipping, but the reinforced concrete quay structure was also suffering from severe corrosion,” added Paul.

The concrete was treated and remediated but contractors were unable to fit new fenders on to the face of the old quay.

“Between HBPW and A. Torn Construction, we came up with an innovative idea to fabricate steelwork frames so that the new fenders could be supported and suspended at the face of the quay, enabling impact loads to be transferred to the solid quay wall to the rear.

“This required the use of a long, 610mm diameter tube – another key element in transferring impact loads to the rear quay earth retaining wall. However, to install the tube below the existing quay deck and in close proximity to the surface of the  dock water level, HBPW and A Torn Construction devised a series of counter ballasted pontoons.

“It was a challenge and the reality is never as clear cut as it often first appears. But, when you consider that ship manoeuvrability, by its nature, is slow, fenders are vital in the berthing process.

“Despite any initial challenges, the installation went smoothly and quickly, and Quay 12 now has 20-30 new fenders against which ships are berthing successfully.