Changing or Repairing a Semi-Rigid Flange: Costs and Methods
The inflatable tubes of semi-rigid boats are essential components guaranteeing the buoyancy, stability and performance of the boat.
However, over time, these tubes can wear out or suffer more or less serious damage.
For boaters, a crucial question then arises: should the tubes be repaired or replaced?
In this article, Orca Retail helps you see things more clearly by addressing the causes of wear and tear, common risks, repair and replacement methods and their respective costs.
Lifespan and wear of pneumatic tubes
The lifespan of a semi-rigid boat float is generally between 5 and 10 years old, depending on several factors.
Usage, maintenance and environment all play a crucial role in the longevity of floats.
For example, a use in salt water, without proper cleaning after each ride, can significantly reduce the life of a bladder.
Similarly, exposure to UV rays can also accelerate the degradation of materials, particularly for PVC tubes.
Regular maintenance, such as washing with fresh water and periodically inspecting for signs of wear, is therefore essential to extend the life of your air bags and save money in the long term.
During periods of heavy use, it is advisable to check floats every month, especially as peak season approaches. Regularly assessing the condition of the tubes helps avoid costly repairs or, worse, premature replacement.
To learn more, see our dedicated article "How to maintain your semi-rigid boat?".
Common risks and accidents affecting semi-rigid floats
Boudin floats are often exposed to various hazards that can lead to damage. Navigation accidents, such as collisions with floating objects or some strandings, represent one of the main causes of damage.
Furthermore, when launching or storing, friction with rough surfaces can cause holes or some tears.
Young children or animals on board may also accidentally damage the floats, by pulling on them or playing with them.
Besides physical accidents, weather conditions can also be harmful. extreme heat, THE freeze or prolonged exposure to bad weather can affect the structure of the sausages, making them more fragile.
Finally, chemicals such as the essence, engine oil or some cleaners can deteriorate materials.
Knowing these risks helps prevent incidents and, if necessary, act quickly for repairs.
To learn more, see our dedicated articles "What to do if your Zodiac tire has a puncture?" And "Emergency repair of a puncture at sea".
Change or Repair? Solving the Dilemma
When faced with a damaged sausage, the question of complete replacement or repair often arises.
To determine the best option, it is essential toassess the extent of the damage.
The little ones perforations or detections of leaks can usually be repaired.
On the other hand, if the tear is important or if the material is too worn, the change black pudding can be the best solution.
This decision must also take into account the cost of repair versus the price of a new tube.
Repairing a semi-rigid boat often remains the most economical solution to extend its lifespan.
For a simple repair, such as a small hole or tear, you should plan for between 50 and 100 euros of labor depending on the complexity of the intervention, and between 100 and 150 € per linear meter of Hypalon repair fabric.
On the other hand, complete replacement of a float requires a much larger budget.
Choosing a new PVC sausage:
- Price range: €2,000 to €10,000 depending on size (3.5 to 12 metres)
- Lifespan: between 8 and 12 years
Choosing a new Hypalon sausage:
- Price range: from €4,500 to €20,000 depending on size (from 3.5 to 12 metres)
- Lifespan: between 20 and 30 years
Choosing Hypalon therefore represents an additional cost compared to PVC, but above all it is an investment in the future, this material being much more resistant.
To learn more, see our articles "PVC or Hypalon: What to choose for your inflatable tubes?" and "All about Hypalon: a versatile synthetic material and sustainable".
Method of replacing semi-rigid tubes
Replacing an air bag requires precision and expertise. Here are the key steps to perform this operation:
Step 1: Removing the old tubes
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Completely deflate the tubes.
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Remove the fasteners and gently peel the used tubes from the hull. A specific solvent may be necessary to remove glue residue.
Step 2: Preparing the hull
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Thoroughly clean the surface where the new tubes will be attached.
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Make sure there is no residue of old glue or impurities left.
Step 3: Positioning the new tubes
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Place the new tubes on the hull to check alignment.
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Mark the fixing areas for precise positioning.
Step 4: Applying the glue
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Apply a specific glue for Hypalon or PVC, depending on the material of the tubes, to the hull and to the new tubes.
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Allow to dry according to manufacturer's recommendations.
Step 5: Fixing the sausages
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Assemble the sausages to the shell, pressing firmly to ensure optimum adhesion.
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Use a roller to remove air bubbles and strengthen adhesion.
Step 6: Drying and checking
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Let dry for 48 hours before inflating the sausages.
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Check for leaks and make sure the tubes are properly secured.
Method of repairing sausages with Hypalon fabric
To effectively repair Hypalon air bags, follow these steps:
Step 1: Surface Preparation
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Clean the damaged area thoroughly with fresh water and a mild detergent.
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Dry completely and lightly sand the surface with fine sandpaper.
Step 2: Cutting the Hypalon fabric
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Cut a piece of Hypalon fabric into a circle or oval shape, larger than the tear.
Step 3: Applying the glue
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Apply special Hypalon glue to the part and the area to be repaired.
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Let it dry for a few minutes.
Step 4: Assembly
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Press the piece of fabric firmly onto the damaged area.
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Use a roller to remove air bubbles.
Step 5: Drying time
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Allow the repair to dry for at least 24 hours before re-inflating.
Find a semi-rigid boat expert near you in France to carry out your repairs or changes of tubes.
Conclusion
In short, the choice between changing or repairing a semi-rigid tube depends on the condition of the floats and the severity of the damage.
Sometimes a simple repair can extend the life of the tubes, while being more economical.
However, when the safety and integrity of your boat are at stake, do not neglect the importance of making the right decision!
