When a vessel runs aground or sinks, time becomes critical. Traditional salvage methods like cranes or dry docks often take too long and cost too much. This is where Marine-Airbags come in. They offer a fast, flexible, and cost-effective solution to refloat vessels in emergency situations.
Why Marine Airbags Work in Emergencies
Marine airbags are strong, inflatable devices made of rubber layers. Once placed under a vessel, they provide lift and buoyancy. Because they are portable and easy to deploy, salvage teams can respond quickly without waiting for heavy equipment.
Benefits for Shipowners and Shipyards
- Quick response – Airbags can be delivered and set up fast, saving valuable time.
- Low cost – No need for large cranes or expensive salvage ships.
- Flexibilität – They work on different vessel sizes, from fishing boats to cargo ships.
- Sicherheit – Reduce risks for the crew and salvage workers.
For small and medium shipyards, airbags also serve as a backup tool. If a launch goes wrong or a ship slips off the cradle, airbags can stabilize and recover the vessel.
Typical Emergency Uses
- Grounding incidents – Lifting and rolling stranded vessels back into deeper water.
- Sinking or capsizing – Providing buoyancy to bring the ship upright and afloat.
- Temporary repairs – Supporting vessels during patching of damaged hulls.
- Rescue operations – Helping tugboats and salvage crews secure ships quickly.
How the Process Works
- Assessment – Salvage engineers check the vessel’s size, damage, and location.
- Airbag placement – Airbags slide under the hull or along the sides.
- Inflation – Compressed air fills the bags, creating lift and buoyancy.
- Refloating – The vessel rises and can be moved to a safe area for repairs.
This simple process makes airbags an ideal tool in urgent situations where every hour counts.
FAQ
Q: Can marine airbags refloat large ships?
A: Yes. With the right number and size of airbags, even large cargo ships can be refloated.
Q: Are airbags safe to use during salvage?
A: Yes. Marine airbags are built to handle high pressure and tough conditions. Proper operation ensures safety.
Q: How long does it take to set up airbags?
A: In many cases, a team can place and inflate airbags within a few hours.
Q: Can they be reused?
A: Yes. With good maintenance, marine airbags can be used many times.
