What is a Single Bitt Bollard?

A single bitt bollard is a fixed device used for mooring ships, typically installed on docks, ports, or ship decks. It is used to secure mooring ropes or cables, ensuring that the ship remains stable while docked.

A single bitt bollard is a mooring device with a single vertical cylindrical structure. The top is usually slightly thicker or has a flange to facilitate the wrapping and securing of ropes (such as in a "figure-eight" or "lasso" manner). It is bolted to a base, providing an anchor point for ships to resist external forces such as wind, waves, and tides.

Key Features

• Structure: A single cylindrical body with a thickened or flanged top to prevent rope slippage.
• Load Capacity: Depending on the design, the load capacity ranges from 10 tons to 200 tons, with some reaching 400 tons, suitable for ships of different tonnages.
• Rope Angle: Adapts to steep angles (vertical ±45° and horizontal 0~180°), especially suitable for environments with wide tidal ranges.
• Installation: Fixed to the dock or deck with 4~8 bolts (M24~M56), sometimes filled with concrete to enhance stability.
• Material: Commonly made of ductile cast iron (e.g., QT450-10), cast steel (e.g., ASTM A27), or stainless steel. The surface is usually coated with epoxy or hot-dip galvanized to prevent seawater corrosion.

Application Scenarios

• Ports and Docks: Used in container terminals, bulk cargo terminals, oil and gas terminals, etc., to secure cargo ships, tankers, etc.
• Ship Decks: Used for intra-ship mooring (such as ships alongside each other) or to secure equipment.
• Special Environments: Suitable for coastal ports with large tidal ranges or berths requiring high-angle ropes.

Advantages and Disadvantages

• Advantages:
  • Simple structure, easy to manufacture and install.
  • Suitable for multiple ropes (depending on capacity) and steep angles, with strong adaptability.
  • Relatively low cost, suitable for various berth types.
• Disadvantages:
  • Compared to double bitt bollards or T-head bollards, stability under high-angle loads is slightly inferior.
  • Requires regular inspection of bolts and surface coatings to prevent corrosion or loosening.

Differences from Similar Equipment

• Double Bitt Bollard: Has two posts, suitable for higher loads or multiple rope fixings, with stronger stability.
• T-Head Bollard: Has a T-shaped top, suitable for heavy ships or high-strength mooring.
• Quick Release Hook: Used for quick release of ropes, suitable for docks with frequent berthing.