Of all the side fenders available, the Hip Fenders are the most important. Viking offers a variety of hip fenders for different applications. For instance, ship docking hip fenders are thick and absorb a multitude of energy. The thickness allows the tug to work closer to the bow and stern of the ship without making contact with the wheel house of the tug. Viking also offers wheel house fenders so even if contact is made, it won't be metal to metal.
Mat-Style Hip Fenders are often used for barge handling tugboat. These fenders are solidly mounted to the tugs hull. They are long lasting and typically cover the area aft of the bow fenders, back to the 1/4 bitt.
Laminated D-Shape Side Fenders overwhelming popularity stems from their reputation for durability, easy installation, lack of maintenance, and an inexpensive price tag.
Hanging-Type Side Fenders are widely used for harbor and river tugs. Pigtalls and Single Tier Fenders are also made in various lengths: 2-foot through 8-foot sections for the Pigtails and 3-foot to 6-foot lengths for the Single Tiers. In addition, Pigtails can be made with fixed or swivel eye ends.
Bucket Fenders - This fender was designed to be used on the side of a tug's wheelhouse, allowing the tug to work under the flare of the ship's bow. But these fenders are often used in many other applications.
