Why This Issue Is Necessary and Urgent
Every year, shipyards around the globe face challenges launching and salvaging vessels—challenges that can stall budgets and timelines. Picture this: a midsize boat stuck on a beach, too heavy for cranes, stranded by low tide. Time is money. Traditional crane setups can cost tens of thousands daily, while delays compound. That’s why floating airbags, especially marine airbags, have emerged as a game‑changer—lightweight, scalable, and highly efficient. For companies like Sunhelm, understanding their structure and material is crucial to delivering reliable, safe solutions that cut costs and risks.
What Are Floating Airbags?
Floating airbags, also known as ship‑launch airbags or marine airbags, are high‑strength inflatable cylinders used to launch vessels, salvage sunken or grounded ships, and aid in marine construction.
Bold, durable, and reusable, they serve as rolling supports and flotation aids—no need for cranes or rails.
Key Structural Components of Marine Airbags
- Outer Rubber Layer: Tough, wear‑resistant shell that protects against abrasion, UV, and saltwater.
- Reinforcement Layer(s): Multiple synthetic tire‑cord or nylon‑cord fabric layers woven or spiral‑wound, often 4–12 plies, offering high tensile strength (e.g., >15,000 N per 5 cm).
- Inner Rubber Layer: Gas‑tight lining maintains internal pressure and prevents leakage.
- End Valves & Fittings: High‑pressure air valves, swivel connectors, often with safety/pressure relief mechanisms to prevent overpressure.
- Lifting Belts & Shackles: Heavy‑duty polyester or nylon straps sewn around the airbag, with ≥6:1 safety factor for secure hoisting.
Why Marine Airbag Design Matters
- Strength & Durability: Reinforced structure resists punctures and can endure repeated use over 6–10 years.
- Performance in Severe Conditions: Marine airbags can function under pressure at depths up to ~25 m (0.25 MPa), making them ideal for deep salvage tasks.
- Weight & Portability: At only ~20% the weight of traditional rubber rollers, they’re easier to ship and deploy.
- Flexibility: Conical ends and custom diameters help center vessel loads and adapt to irregular hulls.
FAQ
- What materials are marine airbags made of?
High‑strength rubber outer/inner layers with multiple synthetic‑cord fabric reinforcements. - How do marine airbags support ships?
Inflated and positioned beneath a hull, they distribute load evenly and roll the ship into the water. - Can marine airbags be reused?
Yes—most have 6–10 year lifespans and are repairable using kits or factory service. - What pressure can marine airbags handle?
Usually up to 0.25 MPa (25 m water depth), sometimes higher depending on design. - How do I choose the right airbag size?
Consider diameter (0.6–3 m+), length (1.2–25 m), load capacity, and vessel dimensions—Sunhelm offers custom sizing advice.
At Sunhelm, we combine top‑tier materials, precision design, and expert engineering to supply marine airbags specifically tailored to your launch or salvage project. Want to know more about sizing, materials, or customized solutions? Let’s make your next job smoother, safer, and more cost‑effective—reach out to our team today!