CB/T-3837 Standard 1.5m X 15m Marine Rubber Airbags For Vessel Lifting

The Marine Airbags

Commonly known as 'rubber airbags', 'MAX airbags','marine air bags', or 'balloons/belons', these inflatable objects are constructed from multiple layers of reinforced rubber. The MAX Marine Airbags are fabricated in accordance with the ISO14409 Ship Launching Air Bags standard. They possess a cylindrical form with hemispherical ends on both sides.

"Ship launching via air bags represents an inventive technique that is purportedly a Chinese invention and has been in application for several decades. The airbags are inflated to hoist the vessel or structure, and then, with the assistance of gravity, it is enabled to glide into the water in a regulated setting. This approach can be readily employed for vessels of all varieties and sizes, and is especially favored for flat bottom barges and small-to-medium-sized vessels."

Advantages

This technology is reputed to be a highly economical solution. With proper maintenance and care, airbags can remain in service for over 8 years. The prices of airbags vary depending on their types and sizes. However, even the larger-sized airbags generally cost less than alternative launching methods.

The airbags offer support to the hull of the vessel and facilitate its movement during launching into the water, additionally safeguarding the hull from damage. According to Kevin, "it is a secure option for launching structures weighing up to 10,000 tonnes". In reality, through meticulous calculation and professional supervision, heavy vessels in China exceeding 50,000 tonnes have also been successfully launched using this technique.

Moreover, in comparison to the oiled slipway launching, which is another prevalent choice for most small to medium vessels, this method is considerably more environmentally friendly. Its adaptability has been a significant factor contributing to its extensive adoption. Over the years, numerous issues such as slipway restrictions and working height difficulties can be resolved without imposing additional costs on shipyards.

Disadvantages

Up to now, the majority of failures have been a result of improper implementation rather than flaws in the product itself (excluding inexpensive and substandard airbags produced by unethical suppliers). The condition of the slipway, as well as the design and size of the vessel, play a crucial role in determining the appropriate type and quantity of airbags to be utilized. It might appear straightforward, but beginners should avoid attempting it independently. Different sizes and types of airbags have distinct recommended internal pressures and varying lifting capacities. Kevin emphasizes that interested parties should consult a reliable supplier regarding the suitable type of airbags for their specific requirements.

The successful utilization of the versatility of rubber airbags has led to cost-effective and safe launchings globally. In addition to manufacturing and supplying airbags, most prominent suppliers also undertake entire projects, encompassing launching consultations and providing a range of supplies from winch accessories to rubber airbags, ensuring comprehensive coordination and quality assurance.

Products Introduction

Ship launching Marine Airbags feature an exquisitely designed structure, incorporating five distinct functional membranes within the rubber layers.

Outer Rubber Layer
The outer rubber layer serves as a protective shield on the exterior of the marine airbag. Its primary function is to safeguard the underlying layers from abrasion and various external forces. Composed of a compound with ample tensile and tearing strength, it can endure even the harshest conditions and heavy-duty usage.

Inner Rubber Layer
The inner rubber layer plays a crucial role in sealing the pressurized air within the marine airbags, ensuring airtightness and maintaining the proper inflation state.

Synthetic-Tire-Cord Layer as Reinforcement
The reinforcement cord layers, fabricated from synthetic-tire-cord materials typically utilized in tires, are meticulously arranged at optimal angles. This strategic placement enables them to effectively hold the internal pressure and evenly distribute stress throughout the airbag. As a result, they offer robust and efficient reinforcement, enhancing the overall structural integrity of the marine airbag.

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Air bag Structure

Ship Launching Air bag size and model

Size

Diameter of air bag (D) varies such as 0,8 m, 1,0 m, 1,2 m, 1,5 m, 1,8 m, etc.

Length of air bag (L) is to be specified by the user.

Model

According to the synthetic-tyre-cord reinforcement layers number of air bags, air bags can be divided into 3 layers air bags,4 layers air bags,5 layers air bags,

6 layers air bags...normally air bags layers less than 10

Air bag bearing capacity

maximum load carrying capacity of the air bag while it suffers no permanent deformation or damage

D is the original diameter of the air bag

H is the height of the compressed air bag

W₁ is the width air bag contacting with ship bottom

P₁ is the internal pressure of the air bag

L is air bag effective length

Bearing capacity =P₁ × W₁ × L

Company Information

Luhang is a professional manufacture of ship launching airbags and ship berthing buoy/fenders.Through many years' development , we have developed to a high-tech enterprise with an integration of scientific research and design, product R&D,sales and technical service. By advanced manufacturing equipments, strictly QC,we supplying high quality products and excellent after sale service and got widely appraised by domestic and overseas customers.