Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats Offer Tremendous Performance Benefits
Posted: Friday, September 25, 2009
by Kevin Urban
Rigid hull inflatable boats (RIBs) offer numerous benefits for a very wide range of different needs. What are these boats? How can you benefit from a rigid hull inflatable boat? In order to understand the benefits provided by these vessels, you will first need to know a bit more about them, as well as the industries and areas where they see use in the modern world.
An RIB is a unique fusion, or hybrid, involving elements from two traditionally separate types of vessel. You will find that most rigid hull inflatable boats make use of a rigid hull made of metal or fiberglass, mated to an inflatable ring or featuring inflatable air chambers within or around the hull.
The reason for this design is that it provides the best mixture of stability, handling and buoyancy. For instance, here are the benefits associated with each type of technology used in RIB construction:
Rigid Hull – Better performance over water, including better tracking and handling over all types of water surfaces
Inflatables – Better buoyancy, greater stability and more safety through redundant air chambers
What Industries Use Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats?
You'll find that RIBs play an important role in a very wide range of different industries, ranging from commercial interests to divers to the military and everything in between. Here, you'll find a bit about each different type and why RIBs benefit the industry.
Diving – Divers routinely use RIBs in their efforts, because these boats offer better stability on the surface. Having a reliable base from which to launch dive operations is vital, but not every diver can make use of larger ships. Therefore, RIBs can be used with ease, as they come in a very wide range of sizes and prices.
Rescue – Rigid hull inflatable boats play a significant role in aquatic rescue scenarios. These types of boats are routinely used by the Coast Guard, as well as by park services to rescue those trapped through accident and happenstance. One of the reasons that these boats are used so frequently is that they have greater stability in storms and rough waters, thanks to their integrated inflation ring or tubes.
This helps to ensure that the boat is able to withstand conditions that would sink other ships, enabling rescuers to arrive on the scene and reliably extract people from their dire situation.
Commercial – Commercial uses for rigid hull inflatable boats vary considerably. They are used in the oil industry as ferries for personnel and more. They are used in small commercial fishing operations and they also play a role in numerous other commercial aspects where operations must take place on or over water.
Because RIBs offer enhanced performance and stability, they can play a significant role in the transport of employees from one location to another, without the concerns that come from traditional types of boat construction.
Sports – Sports usage of RIBs is also vast and varied. Because they use hulls designed for hydroplaning, rigid hull inflatable boats have better performance than their traditional counterparts, making them the ideal solution for any water sport where speed is a critical component, such as skiing, parasailing and more.
Cruising – RIBs can make ideal cruising boats, as they provide more comfort than their fully fiberglass or metal counterparts, while simultaneously offering better performance, more stability and enhanced buoyancy. For instance, for those wishing to enjoy a relaxing cruise, rigid hull inflatable boats provide a firm platform, without sacrificing speed or agility, as a larger boat might. This helps to ensure that you are able to enjoy as leisurely a cruise as you might wish.
Racing – While it might seem counterintuitive to think that rigid hull inflatable boats make good racers, it is certainly true. This is due to their unique hull design, which allows them to handle quite well on water, combined with their lighter weight, thanks to the inflatable aspects of the boat. This combination results in better power, better performance and higher speeds attainable than a comparably sized traditional boat. You'll find RIBs used throughout the boat racing industry, from friendly competitions to sponsored events and everything in between.
As you can see, rigid hull inflatable boats play a role in a wide range of different industries and areas on the water. They are ideal for use on the ocean, on the lake, river or anywhere else. In addition, thanks to their wide range of styles and sizes, you can find an RIB that will provide you with all the benefits that you need, whether you intend to venture out for some deep-sea fishing, or want to enjoy waterskiing on the local lake. Rigid hull inflatable boats are the single best option for anyone who demands the most stability, performance and value for their money. About the Author:
Rob Steele is a freelance writer for http://www.AllInflatableBoats.net - We review inflatable kayaks, catamarans, dinghies, canoes, sailboats, inflatable pontoon fishing boats, runabouts and motormounts.
Copyright 2009 AllInflatableBoats.net
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