Bollard testing and berthing capacity analysis

Andy Painting

Pragmatic operational guidance

Attis and Integrity Testing (Pty) Ltd. were approached to evaluate the bollard capacities and the maximum berthing energy that could be borne by Berth 2 jetty and, thereby, to determine the maximum size of vessel that could be safely berthed. This work had to include the variations in approach angle and speed of vessels approaching the berth.


Additionally, the effects of wind speed and direction were to be considered for different sized vessels in order to establish relevant safety factors in mooring vessels against the berth wall. This information was then presented in a way that would provide pragmatic visual guidance for the port operations team.


"The testing of the bollards was undertaken professionally and without impact to other port operations. This information was used to develop an easy to understand berthing limitations chart that identified maximum angles and speeds of approach as well as maximum wind speed and direction for mooring different classes of vessels."

Steve Watkyns

Technical Director

Portsmouth International Port

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