The Many Choices Available in Inflatable Boat Fabrics



Posted: Wednesday, September 23, 2009

by

  Inflatable boats are available in a wide range of different styles and types. In addition, different inflatable boat fabrics should play a singular role in your ultimate decision to purchase any type of inflatable watercraft. What types of fabric are available? What makes a sound decision and what types of fabrics might leave you with a subpar experience? In this guide, you will learn more about the various heavy duty fabrics used in the construction of modern inflatables, as well as how to choose the right type of boat for your particular needs.

In the Past, Rubber Reigned

For anyone who's ever considered such a purchase, rubber is the most commonly thought of option of all the various inflatable boat fabrics. However, rubber boats, while certainly durable, are no longer the only option open to you. The reason that rubber reigned supreme for so long was that the only alternative was PVC, a material that, at the time, was not durable and did not stand the test of time and actual use. That said, the market today contains a wide range of alternative fabrics that can work quite well for a very diverse number of needs.

Modern PVC Material

One of the most common modern inflatable boat fabrics is PVC. Once upon a time, PVC was not a good choice. However, today, this material is a lightweight, durable, affordable option to some other materials on the market. Of course, you will not see this material used in high-end ribbed boats, nor will you find it in boats designed for long-term exposure to the sun, such as working boats. This is because PVC can still suffer degradation with exposure to UV light. PVC boats are usually double-walled and the weight runs from 850 grams to 1400 grams (25 oz to 41 oz). You will also find that these boats are available in a wide range of heights and lengths, as well.

Polyurethane Boat Fabric

One of the most durable of all inflatable boat fabrics is polyurethane. In fact, this is the material used most in Navy applications. Polyurethane stands up well to abrasion, making it a very good choice for whitewater applications. Of course, there are some problems with polyurethane, as well. For instance, the material is quite rigid, which makes boats using this material a bit less appealing to the leisure crowd. You will also find the colors available somewhat lacking. Therefore, polyurethane is an ideal option in inflatable boat fabrics for anyone who demands tremendous strength and resilience, but does not require custom colorization or a "soft touch."

Hypalon Used in Inflatable Boat Manufacture

Developed by DuPont, Hypalon is a unique synthetic rubber material with quite a wide range of different applications. One of those is the role it plays in inflatable boat fabrics. Usually, Hypalon is utilized in the exterior construction of the boat fabric, while neoprene is used for the interior. This offers the best combination of resilience and comfort.

Hypalon resists abrasion well and is UV stable, unlike PVC and other types of inflatable boat fabrics. In addition, it is resistant to chemicals such as petroleum (and petroleum-derived products), which gives it even more resilience and durability. Other benefits of this material include the fact that it is colorfast and the fact that it offers enhanced air tightness.

Choices in Seams

You'll find that all inflatable boats have seams, due to the fact that several panels of material must be used in the construction of the boat. These seams will either be overlapped and glued, or butted, taped and glued. Overlapped seams offer decent quality and air tightness, at least initially, but the problem with this method is that over time, the seam may begin to peel.

Butted seams are the best choice, though they should be taped on the inside and outside, prior to glue being applied. This helps to ensure that the seam will stand the test of hard use on the water and will not separate. Butted seams offer the best aesthetic appearance, resulting in a virtually flat material surface, in addition to providing better resilience and performance. However, butted seams are more difficult to construct and inflatable boats made with this technique will have a correspondingly higher price point.

Making Your Choice of Inflatable Boat Fabrics

Obviously, your choice of fabrics will depend on the use you intend to put the boat to, as well as your budget and other factors. You might find that Hypalon is the best material for your needs, though polyurethane can be a great choice, as can traditional rubber or even PVC. Pros and cons can be found for each type of material. Each of the various benefits must be weighed prior to making your final choice in inflatable boat fabrics.

About the Author:

Rob Steele is a freelance writer for AllInflatableBoats.net. The site offers reviews of the best inflatable boats, catamarans, yacht tenders, motormounts, RIBs and inflatable sail boats.

Copyright 2009 AllInflatableBoats.net
 

This Article has been viewed 673 times. (Not updated in real-time.)
No comments yet.
We want your comments! If you can read this, you don't have javascript enabled, so you can't use this comment system. Please enable javascript.