The type of fabric used in the construction of an inflatable boat is vital for the quality and thus life span of the pontoon or tube

Inflatable Boat Fabric

The type of fabric used in the construction of an inflatable boat is vital for the quality and thus life span of the pontoon or tube. Fabrics used in inflatable boat production are divided into 3 different groups: PVC fabrics, Hypalon fabrics and Polyurethane (PU) fabrics. All of these fabrics are comprised of a coating polymer such as PVC, Hypalon or PU together with a supporting fabric; either neoprene, polyester or nylon. These materials can be treated with chemicals that make them resistant to mildew and mold, thus improving their longevity and lifespan even in damp or humid environments. The fabrics can also be made to be easy to clean and maintain, reducing the cost of upkeep and maintenance.

The most commonly used material for production boats is PVC fabric or neoprene-hypalon fabric. PVC is a manmade plastic that can be produced industrially, making it cheaper than hypalon. However, PVC is not as durable as hypalon and may be less resistant to UV rays. Hypalon is a synthetic rubber, which has superb resistance to sunlight, ozone, abrasion and extreme temperatures. It is more expensive than PVC but can last decades if properly cared for.

Choosing between PVC or Hypalon is largely dependent on how the boat will be used and stored. If you plan to use the boat all year round and for professional purposes, it is advisable to use a neoprene-hypalon RIB. If you will only use the boat 1 or 2 months a year and store it in a shed or garage, then a PVC-coated boat is an acceptable option. It is important to note that neoprene-hypalon is still handcrafted and cannot be produced industrially. This means that the seams of neoprene-hypalon boats need to be assembled by gluing. This can lead to stress and weak spots on the boat.

Alternatively, a PVC-coated boat is assembled by welding, which can be more reliable, and allows the fabric to be stretched and compressed, resulting in reduced stresses on the seams. PVC-coated boats can be welded using high heat pressure, radio frequencies (RF), or electronic welding machines. This can be much quicker and more efficient than gluing. The RF and electronic welding methods also produce a more robust, long-lasting seam.