Rubber Compound Specification By far the most important factor affecting fender performance is rubber type and rubber compound composition. However, the behaviour of rubber under stress is unique, so it’s essential that precisely the right formulation is specified and – critically, finds its way to the final product – to ensure a long and robust service life. Three key factors – velocity factor, temperature factor and longevity are affected by rubber grade and compound formulation in marine fenders. The properties of fenders vary dramatically depending on their composition, as such; rubber compound composition should be built into specifications in order to guarantee performance and lifecycle. This model specification is intended to guide specifiers in ensuring the correct rubber compound composition. Please copy and paste from this document when specifying rubber fenders to ensure your supplier can provide the compound composition and physical properties required to optimise performance and guarantee longevity. Specification for chemical composition of moulded fenders Test Polymer (rubber) Carbon Black Rubber filler ratio * Does not apply to standard cylindrical and extruded fenders; however, can be supplied upon special request. Testing your supplier’s products Before production: The vendor is required to provide a tensile slab measuring 150mm L x 150 mm W x 2mm T. [Insert name of specifier] will submit this sample for testing at an independent third party laboratory, to determine compound complies with specification. Testing will include TGA and FTIR testing to ensure compliance with the above rubber compound composition specification. After production: The vendor will be required to submit two samples (approximately 50 grams each collected in the presence of the buyer or a third party appointed by the buyer) from the final product. The fender will be selected at random by [Insert name of specifier]. The sample does not necessarily have to be in one piece, it can be thin pieces sliced or scraped by a sharp knife, from the fender body without damaging the fender. If the fender sample collection is damaged, it should be repaired before the product is desp

[Insert name of specifier] will submit this sample to an independent third party for testing, to ensure that the final product adheres to the compound specification listed above. Please note: if the samples tested do not satisfy the specification, the entire batch of fenders will be re-tested . Please note: [Insert name of specifier] reserves the right to request a second sample to confirm results from the initial testing. The vendor will only apply a test certificate to the final products once they have satisfied the criteria listed above. Updating Quality Control practices In the vast majority...