Our marine-grade UHMWPE pads provide ultra-low friction, high wear resistance, and long-lasting protection for fender panel systems. Designed to be attached to the front face of steel fender panels (such as Super Cell or Cone fender systems), these pads provide the crucial low-friction contact surface required for smooth, safe vessel berthing. By significantly reducing the shear forces generated during docking, our UHMW PE pads extend the lifespan of your entire fender infrastructure and minimize maintenance costs.
Designed for ports, harbors, wharfs, and jetty structures, these pads ensure smooth vessel berthing while significantly reducing maintenance costs. With custom sizes, CNC machining, and durable performance in saltwater environments, our UHMWPE pads are the trusted choice for global fender manufacturers and marine contractors.
Boomarine is a leading supplier of marine equipment. With a strong focus on quality, reliability, and innovation, we specialize in supplying UHMWPE pads, fender panel liners, dock bumpers, HDPE components, and custom-machined plastic parts designed to meet the demanding requirements of global port operations and marine engineering. Our products comply with international standards including ISO 9001, REACH, and RoHS, and we offer third-party testing from SGS, BV, or DNV upon request.
Technical Specifications
(Custom specs can be provided based on your project requirements.)
| Property | Typical Value | Notes |
| Material | Virgin UHMW-PE | Marine grade |
| Density | 0.93–0.96 g/cm³ | Lightweight, floats on water |
| Molecular Weight | 3–5 million | Ensures durability |
| Coefficient of Friction | 0.10–0.22 | Extremely low friction |
| Tensile Strength | ≥ 22 MPa | Strong & reliable |
| Impact Strength | No break | Excellent impact absorption |
| Water Absorption | < 0.01% | Non-hygroscopic |
| Working Temperature | –80°C to +80°C | Suitable for harsh climates |
| Color Options | Black / Blue / Yellow / Red / Green | Customizable |
| Surface Finish | Smooth / Matte / Patterned | Optional |
Key Features and Benefits of UHMWPE Pad
By retaining their distinct mechanical characteristics, UHMW PE will remain the best option for marine fender facings. ASTM, the international standards developing organisation, prescribed the best grade resins for optimal efficiency.
- Ultra-Low Coefficient of Friction: The smooth and “slippery” surface allows the hull of the ship to smoothly glide over the fender face, thereby minimising damaging shear forces specially berthing transferred over to the fender and dock.
- Exceptional Wear Resistance: Provides excellent life cycle under sustained high loads. An astounding 5 – 7 times more wear-resistant than steel which makes it suitable for high frequency docking areas.
- High Impact Strength: UHMW PE is unbreakable. It can sustain large abrupt impacts and slow compression at any given extreme cold temperature without the formation of cracks or splinters.
- Zero Water Absorption & Corrosion Proof: UHMW PE does not swell or rot over a given period of time in seawater. It is impervious to marine organisms and saltwater and unlike timber it does not rot. Unlike steel, it does not rust.
- UV and Chemical Resistance: The pads are highly stable and resistant to long term exposure to UV light, and to many of the chemicals and oils made available in port waters.
- Customizable: Different ports have different requirements. Each pad can be machined to fit the precise thickness specifications, have accurate bolt-hole patterns drilled in advance, and be chamfered to accommodate any new or existing fender panel design.
Applications of UHMWPE Pad
UHMWPE fender pads are widely used in:
- Wharf and jetty fender systems
- Harbor and port berthing structures
- Fender panel face pads for rubber fenders (V, D, Cone, Cell, etc.)
- Dolphins, terminals, and offshore docking areas
- Shipyards, cargo ports, container terminals, and ferry landings
- Suitable for commercial, industrial, and heavy-duty maritime applications.
Installation Guidelines
1. Surface Preparation
Ensure the steel fender panel surface is clean, flat, and free of rust or debris. If needed, apply anti-corrosion coatings before installing pads.
2. Fixing Method
Typically installed using SS316 stainless steel bolts from the backside of the fender panel.
Pads can include:
- Countersunk holes
- Chamfered edges
- Recessed fixing slots
3. Thermal Expansion Consideration
UHMWPE expands with temperature changes.
- To prevent deformation:
- Leave appropriate side clearance.
- Use elongated bolt slots if required for large panels.
4. Regular Inspection
Check bolts, alignment, and wear status periodically. Replace pads only when the thickness has worn down significantly (usually after 10+ years).
