Multiplex from Bremen manufactures high-quality products for mega yachts. These include awnings as well as step systems and fenders, which ensure that yachts can withstand collisions with other boats or pontoons. The company brought in ACE shock absorbers for its multifender system.

Installed on a yacht in shock-sensitive areas, the fenders are responsible for optimally absorbing vertical and horizontal movements and the resulting forces, for example when a boat moors next to the yacht in swell during a rendezvous and people get on or off the boat. For years, industrial shock absorbers from ACE in Multiplex fenders have provided reliable protection in these situations. In a further phase of cooperation, they were replaced with stainless steel versions with the same effect.

With a fastening system, the multifenders are produced individually for each yacht according to customer wishes and requirements. © ACE

Stainless steel shock absorbers
The basic approach of ACE and multiplex is very similar: solutions should not only impress with their function, but also visually. This is why the Langenfeld-based company offers a wide range of small and industrial shock absorbers in stainless steel versions. These are used when the dampers and their seals need to be protected from aggressive media, such as salt water, or when they are used in environments where they also need to meet aesthetic requirements.

In the case described here, industrial steel shock absorbers had previously been used, as these had been installed inside the Multiplex multifenders to protect them from view as well as from water. However, over a longer period of time, it became apparent that the cool water was able to penetrate the inside of the fenders. Although this did not affect the functionality of either protection system, it did affect their appearance. The surface coating of the steel industrial shock absorbers from ACE's Magnum family became discolored after some time. This led to brownish traces of color appearing on small outer sections of the fenders.

Tailor-made, adjustable ACE industrial shock absorbers made of stainless steel are integrated into the multifender and are now available as standard. © ACE

New industrial shock absorbers ensure satisfaction
In contrast to many other small and industrial shock absorbers from ACE's extensive portfolio, the Magnum types previously ordered by Multiplex were not previously available in stainless steel. As the experts from the Rhineland are always able to develop customer-specific solutions in a short space of time, they produced the ML3350EUM-14202 in stainless steel especially for Multiplex for the first time. And because this type is an adjustable model, not only the housing had to be developed in V4A, but also the base and the adjusting screw.

The performance data of the damping solutions has not changed, so no new design was necessary. Like their predecessors, the stainless steel versions are capable of absorbing 340 newton meters per stroke. Designed for industrial applications, this allows energy absorption of up to 85,000 newton meters per hour. The permitted masses are more important for maritime use. They are at the upper end of the scale at 80,000 kilograms and therefore within a sufficient range even when mooring ships. ACE also has adjustable Magnum dampers in its portfolio, which can absorb up to 500,000 kilograms or, if cases are significantly smaller, are suitable for masses as low as nine kilograms.

In addition to PU heads to minimize noise, the accessories also include swivel flanges and bolt preloads. The pre-supports are useful when higher axle deviations occur. The new complete package of multifenders from Multiplex with the integrated Magnum dampers is easy to fit and no bleeding has been seen since the switch to stainless steel. as