High Load Capacity Ship Launching Airbags Durable Flexible Reliable

High Load Capacity Ship Launching Airbags Durable Flexible Reliable

Description

Ship launching airbags are advanced auxiliary devices used for launching and transporting vessels, primarily to move a ship smoothly from the shipyard slipway into the water or for lateral movement within a dry dock. These airbags are constructed with high-strength synthetic rubber reinforced with multiple layers of steel wire rope, ensuring excellent elasticity and load-bearing capacity even under extreme pressures. The design is carefully engineered to withstand the impact generated during launching while offering corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and aging resistance.

Operation is straightforward: airbags are placed under the hull and inflated to the specified pressure. Their low-friction surface ensures smooth sliding, preventing hull scratches or damage. Compared to traditional slipways or roller methods, airbags reduce launch costs, improve efficiency, and are suitable for a wide variety of vessels and port conditions.

Case Study

In 2023, a mid-sized shipyard in Guangdong undertook a 1,200-ton cargo vessel project. Due to limited space, traditional slipways could not safely accommodate the launch. The shipyard decided to use Hongruntong Marine Ship Launching Airbags.

The project employed eight airbags, each 2.5 meters in diameter and 18 meters long. Based on hull weight and slipway slope calculations, the airbags were inflated to a working pressure of 0.18 MPa. Prior to launch, a comprehensive safety check was performed, including visual inspection, airtightness testing, and load simulation experiments.

On launch day, the team positioned the airbags under the hull and inflated them to the design pressure using specialized pumps. The vessel slid smoothly into the water without any tilt or abnormal movement. After launch, the airbags were safely recovered without damage. This case demonstrated the reliability and efficiency of airbags for medium-to-large vessel launches, saving approximately 30% of traditional launch costs and reducing launch time by 20%.

Specifications

Features

High Strength Pressure Resistant Structure
Hongruntong Marine airbags feature a composite structure of multi-layer steel wire reinforcement and high-strength synthetic rubber. This ensures they can withstand instantaneous loads of 3–5 times the vessel’s weight during launching. Steel wire layers evenly distribute stress, minimizing localized pressure points, while the rubber outer layer offers superior wear and aging resistance, maintaining long-term stability in marine conditions.

Precision Pressure Control & Safety Valve Design
Equipped with high-accuracy pressure gauges and safety relief valves, the airbags maintain optimal inflation pressure. Even during sudden impact, the safety valve adjusts pressure automatically, preventing rupture or overexpansion. The pressure system can be integrated with an automatic pumping station for remote monitoring and adjustment, reducing operational risk.

Low Friction Sliding Hull Protection
The airbags’ surface is made from specially formulated low-friction rubber, minimizing friction between the hull and airbags. This ensures smooth vessel movement without hull scratches or damage, critical for aluminum or precision-coated ships.

Modular Design & Easy Recovery
The modular design allows airbags to be combined flexibly according to hull length and weight. They can be quickly deflated and recovered for transport and reuse. This flexibility improves operational efficiency and provides customized solutions for different vessel types.

Applications

Port Vessel Launches
Suitable for launching a wide range of vessels in medium-to-large shipyards. Particularly effective in shipyards with limited space, airbags can replace traditional slipways to achieve safe, efficient launches.

Dry Dock Hull Movement
For lateral or longitudinal movement of vessels within dry docks, airbags provide cushioning and support, reducing friction between the hull and ground. Applicable for cargo ships, oil tankers, and passenger vessels.

Offshore Transportation Assistance
Airbags can assist small modular vessels during sea transport, providing additional buoyancy and reducing handling risks, ensuring safe towing, transportation, and temporary mooring.

Why Choose Hongruntong Marine

Professional Manufacturing Experience
Hongruntong Marine has over 20 years of experience in designing and manufacturing ship launching airbags, supplying more than 1,000 shipyards worldwide. Each airbag undergoes rigorous material testing, load simulation, and lifespan evaluation to ensure launch reliability.

Customized Solutions
We provide tailored airbag designs and layouts for different vessel types, weights, and port conditions. Complete operational guidance and technical support are included to ensure safe and efficient launches.

High Quality Material Guarantee
Using imported high-strength synthetic rubber and premium steel wire reinforcement, combined with advanced composite manufacturing, our airbags undergo corrosion, wear, aging, and temperature tests to guarantee long-term performance under extreme conditions.

Comprehensive Technical Support
From design, selection, and training to on-site guidance, Hongruntong offers a full-service solution. Clients can access our professional team at any time during operations to ensure smooth vessel launches.

FAQ

1. What is the maximum vessel weight the airbags can support?
Depending on the model, a single airbag can support 500–3,000 tons. Multiple airbags can be combined for heavier vessels.

2. What is the service life of the airbags?
With proper operation and maintenance, airbags last 8–12 years. Regular inspections of airtightness and surface wear can extend service life.

3. Can airbags be used in seawater environments?
Yes. The rubber outer layer is corrosion-resistant, and internal steel wire reinforcement is rust-proof, suitable for marine conditions.

4. How many personnel are required for operation?
Typically, one team (3–5 people) can handle installation, inflation, and launch. Larger vessels may require additional support staff.

5. Can damaged airbags be repaired?
Minor scratches or punctures can be repaired using professional repair kits. Severe damage requires replacement to ensure safety.

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High Load Capacity Ship Launching Airbags Durable Flexible Reliable Images