https://pilebuck.com/marine/pier-wharf-construction-part-iv-...Second, end-loaded rubber fenders work through the elastic compression of hollow rubber cylinder elements that have small length-to-diameter ratios. To minimize wear, steel fender panels with special rubbing material facing is generally used. These components are usually attached directly to the structure as a cell fender.
Third, side-loaded rubber fenders are hollow rubber units that will deform by attempting to flatten when loaded at their side. These fenders are available in four shapes: trapezoidal, square, circular, or D-shapes. The potential energy of side-loaded rubber fenders is stored by both compression and bending the rubber elements. These fenders do not absorb large amounts of energy, and as a result, are typically used in combination with other components. They are generally installed at the top of fender piles in noncontinuous pieces.