Trelleborg Installs State-of-the-Art Parallel Motion Fenders in Port of San Lorenzo in Argentina
Trelleborg Marine & Infrastructure successfully installs its state-of-the-art Parallel Motion Fenders at San Benito Terminal owned by Molinos Agro S.A. in Port of San Lorenzo, Santa Fe, Argentina. The new fender systems were designed in an unprecedented 14-hour timeframe and installed in collaboration with Orengo y Asociados & AC Ingeniería at the San Benito Terminal to future-proof terminal operations.
Trelleborg Marine & Infrastructure designed and installed the fender system as part of the port authorities’ efforts to mitigate hazards, increase safety and improve operational efficiency at the terminal.
Richard Hepworth, President of Trelleborg Marine and Infrastructure, said: “Designing and implementing reliable fender systems is crucial to preventing damage to vessel’s structural components and ensuring port operations run smoothly. As a trusted partner for our customers around the world, we deliver customized solutions tailored to meet the most demanding requirements through our whole system approach.”
As part of the agreement, Trelleborg engineered a state-of-the-art Parallel Motion Fender (PMF) Dual SCN 1400H with a panel measuring 2.8 meters by 7.5 meters. The panel was mounted on a hinged frame with a double rubber fender and installed on all corners of the terminal. Weighing approximately 40 tons, the newly constructed fender system connects to the pier through a reticulated metallic structure that attaches to the piles with clamps, and to the pier deck using chemical epoxy anchors. The addition of steel beams between the piles evenly distributes the design impact loads.
Hepworth continues: “Taking into account the port’s specific requirements and operating conditions, our team, together with Molinos Agro S.A., conducted a comprehensive assessment to determine the best solution for securing the terminal operations. Our extensive experience in fender design and engineering enabled us to offer a complete range of fender solutions that maximize investment, reduce downtime, and maintenance costs in the long run.”
Trelleborg’s Parallel Motion Fender (PMF) system provides high energy absorption capacity with over 60% less reaction forces than traditional fenders. With its unique design, the front panel remains vertical during compressions and withstands a wide range of berthing angles without compromising energy absorption or performance. This advanced fender system offers many benefits, including ease of installation, minimal maintenance, and a non-tilting front panel.
