Analysis of energy absorption of aluminium foam fenders under axial loads

Abstract

Abstract In shipping, a fender is a bumper that is used to reduce collisions that occur when the ship is about to dock or when the ship is moored by waves or currents in the port. To be able to damp, fenders should demonstrate high energy absorption and low reaction force. Therefore, fenders are generally made of rubber, elastomeric foam, or plastic. In this research, we aim to examine the effect of aluminium foam as one of fender components and to measure if the foam works for damping and allow fender to reduce force. It can be an innovation for fender design because the use of aluminium means a possibility in extending the fender life, minimize replacement and maintenance costs. This research examines 4 variations of the cross-section of the fenders to which aluminium foam have been added. Fender testing is done by conducting crashworthiness and impact tests of the developed fender model by employing Abaqus software. Based on the simulation result, aluminium foam shows a significant role in reducing the pressure generated by the load through the high energy absorption of the aluminium foam using finite element analysis. In conclusion, the foam filled fenders exhibit constant stress which can absorb higher energy levels than that of the empty fenders.

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