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INSTRUCTORS: 
Marc I. Percher, P.E.
William M. Bruin, P.E., D.P.E., M.ASCE
Dolunay Oniz, EIT, M.ASCE
Alfred Roubos, Dr. MSc

Purpose and Background

These presentations were recorded at the ASCE Ports Conference 2025

Rational Approach to Performance-Based Design for Mooring Loads on Marine Structures (23 minutes)

This presentation introduces a performance-based design approach for evaluating mooring loads on marine structures. It explains how mooring forces vary based on vessel behavior, berth type, and environmental conditions, and outlines methods for aligning design criteria with actual operational performance. The session emphasizes rational modeling over prescriptive load combinations to improve design accuracy and resilience. Attendees will gain insights into developing site-specific mooring load envelopes that reflect real-world risk and usage.

Evaluation of Contributing Variables on LRFD Berthing Load Factors (14 minutes)

This session explores the factors influencing load and resistance factor design (LRFD) approaches for berthing loads on marine infrastructure. Presenters analyze the relative impact of vessel mass, velocity, contact angles, and fender performance using parametric modeling. The findings offer a clearer understanding of the variability in berthing events and how these inputs affect required load factors. Attendees will learn how to refine design assumptions and improve safety margins without over conservatism.

Comparison of Fender Dimensions, PIANC WG211 and PIANC WG33 (23 minutes)

This presentation compares various fender system dimensions and geometries to assess their performance under typical berthing conditions. Attendees will learn how size, shape, and mounting configurations influence energy absorption and reaction forces during vessel contact. The session highlights design trade-offs between footprint, load distribution, and structural demand on supporting infrastructure. Practical recommendations are shared for selecting fender systems based on vessel class and operational needs.

Benefits and Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

• Explain how performance-based design principles can be applied to determine mooring loads for various marine structure types.
• Describe how vessel behavior, berth configuration, and environmental conditions influence mooring force predictions.
• Analyze the impact of vessel characteristics and approach conditions on LRFD-based berthing load calculations
• Evaluate how variability in contact velocity, angle, and fender response influences the selection of appropriate load factors.
• Describe how different fender geometries affect energy absorption and force transfer during berthing events./span>
• Compare the structural and operational implications of varying fender dimensions on marine infrastructure design.

Assessment of Learning Outcomes

Students' achievement of the learning outcomes will be assessed via a short post-test assessment (true-false, multiple choice, and/or fill in the blank questions).

Who Should Attend?

• Port engineers
• Port authority staff
• Project managers
• General contractors
• Early career professionals

How to Earn Your CEUs/PDHs and Receive Your Certificate of Completion

To receive your certificate of completion, you will need to complete a short post-test and receive a passing score of 70% or higher within 1 year of purchasing the course.

How do I convert CEUs to PDHs?

1.0 CEU = 10 PDHs [Example: 0.1 CEU = 1 PDH]