After sixteen years of demanding service, the Hypalon tubes on rescue boat Hellegat were due for replacement. Since delivery, the vessel had spent most of its life outdoors and regularly operated in conditions that place heavy loads on both hull and fabric.
Local repairs and replacement valves had extended service life, but the owner ultimately selected a preventive full retube.
New tubes in Orca 866
The original buoyancy tubes were removed and used as the pattern for a new set made from 1670 dtex Orca 866 Hypalon/CSM. Once manufactured, the tubes were installed on site and completed with the remaining fittings.
Rather than being bonded directly to the hull, the tubes slide into a separate Hypalon skirt retained by a rail. The arrangement secures the tubes and adds another layer of protection.
Discuss a custom build or refit project with Novi Marine.
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