Fender Modernization at Veterans Terminal, Pier M

This paper will present a case study for the analysis, design and construction of a modern fender system for the South Carolina State Ports Authority (SCSPA) at its Veterans Terminal - Pier M facility. The project was initiated in February 2012, and included an inspection of the pier structure and fender system by engineer-divers, and an assessment of the design criteria to meet SCSPA's needs for the fender system upgrades. The assessment included consideration of project budget, berthing and reaction load requirements, constructability, anticipated maintenance costs, offset distance between the vessel hull and the pier, and avoiding structural modification of the existing pier structure. Three design alternatives were developed, including an analysis of the SCSPA "standard" continuous fender detail that is used at its other terminals. The final design selected met the requirements for larger cargo vessels and consisted of a series of independent, pile-supported fender units, each capable of taking the full berthing energy of the vessel without transferring the reaction forces to the pier. It is anticipated that construction will begin in early 2013.