When loading and unloading at the dock, a ship needs to be in a stable condition. Therefore, ships are equipped with mooring ropes that are tied to a mooring post. This mooring post is called a mooring bollard, marine bollard, or simply bollard. The mooring bollard functions to keep a docked ship in place, preventing it from shifting, rotating, or moving due to waves, currents, and wind forces.
Mooring bollards are made of metal, commonly cast iron, steel, or stainless steel. These bollards are installed at the dock using different methods, such as embedded installation, through-bolting, or retrofitting.
Aside from the material, the strength of a bollard is also determined by its design. There are six common types of mooring bollards:
1. Straight Bollard
This type has a circular top with a larger diameter than its post, providing a grip for the mooring rope.
2. Single Bit Bollard
The single bit bollard features two protruding arms in the middle, forming a cross. These arms serve as tying points for the ropes.
3. Double Bit Bollard
Essentially, this is two single bit bollards placed together as one unit, offering greater strength compared to a single bit bollard.
4. Cleat Bollard
This bollard has a top shaped like horns, with the base of these “horns” serving as the main rope attachment point. It is compact and ideal for docks with limited space.
5. Curved Bollard
This type features a curved top forming a hook-like shape, with a semi-circular end. The mooring rope is secured by this curve.
6. CVS Bollard
Similar to the curved bollard, but the hook-like top extends outward in a V-shape for better rope security.
How to Choose the Right Mooring Bollard?
Since mooring bollards play a crucial role in securing ships at the dock, selecting the right one is essential. Here are some factors to consider:
1. Tensile Capacity
The bollard must be able to withstand the pulling force of the mooring rope. Larger ships require bollards with a higher tensile capacity. Additionally, factors such as wind, waves, and sea currents at the port should be taken into account.
2. Type of Ship
Consider the type of vessel using the dock, whether it’s a cargo ship, cruise ship, tanker, or another type. Ship size, including length, width, and movement, affects the force that the bollard must endure.
3. Material Selection
Each material has its pros and cons. Cast iron offers high durability but is less resistant to corrosion. Steel, on the other hand, is lighter and more corrosion-resistant than cast iron.
4. Bollard Type
Choose a bollard type that meets operational needs. For example, cleat and single bit bollards are ideal for docks where smaller vessels dock, whereas double bit and curved bollards are better suited for docks accommodating larger ships.
5. Environmental Conditions
Since bollards operate in a marine environment, they should have protective coatings against corrosion, such as galvanization or epoxy paint. Ensure the material can withstand temperature changes and adapt to currents, waves, and tides.
6. Ease of Maintenance
Learn about the maintenance and inspection procedures to ensure safe operation. Choose a bollard with a long lifespan to minimize replacement costs.
PT Samudera Luas Paramacitra (SLP) manufactures three types of mooring bollards: SLP Curved Bollard, SLP Straight Bollard, and SLP CVS Bollard. However, SLP is also ready to provide other types based on customer needs.
For more information about SLP Bollards, feel free to contact us at 0823-2018-9998.