“The Inner Workings: What are PVC Inflatable Kayaks Made Of?” – SUPER VINYLTARP – PVC Inflatable Boat Fabric Manufacturer, China PVC Inflatable Marine Boat Material, Made in China
As the world becomes more adventure-oriented, more and more people are exploring the great outdoors in different ways. One such popular pursuit is kayaking, and in the kayak market, inflatable ones have increasingly gained traction. Notably, many of these inflatable kayaks are made of Polyvinyl Chloride, better known as PVC. So, what exactly is PVC, and why is it commonly used to make inflatable kayaks? Let’s delve into these fascinating details.
Understanding PVC
PVC is a type of thermoplastic polymer that’s third in line in terms of global production, right behind polyethylene and polypropylene. It’s composed of 57% chlorine (derived from industrial grade salt) and 43% carbon (from oil or gas via ethylene). PVC is highly prized for its strength, durability, and resistance to sunlight, oil, chemicals, and weathering.
How PVC Makes a Kayak
When it comes to PVC inflatable kayaks, PVC is not used in its hard, rigid form but rather as a soft, flexible material. This is accomplished by adding plasticizers to the PVC, which disrupt the tight molecular structure, allowing the chains of molecules to slide against one another and resulting in a flexible material.
In creating an inflatable kayak, multiple layers of PVC material are used. A typical PVC inflatable kayak construction involves two PVC layers with a fabric mesh layer in between, known as a sandwich-style construction. This gives the kayak its remarkable durability, sturdiness, and flexibility.
Why PVC is Chosen for Inflatable Kayaks
The reasons behind the widespread use of PVC in inflatable kayaks are multifaceted. Here are some primary factors:
1. Durability: PVC is incredibly tough. It can withstand sharp rocks, sticks, and other potential hazards on the water without tearing or puncturing. This is of critical importance when you’re out on the water, far from the shore.
2. UV Resistance: PVC has excellent resistance to UV rays, which can be quite intense on the water. This means that the material won’t break down, crack, or fade with prolonged exposure to sunlight, extending the kayak’s lifespan.
3. Cost-Effective: PVC is significantly cheaper to manufacture than other materials like Hypalon or Nitrylon, making PVC inflatable kayaks more affordable. This has opened up the sport to more people, fostering its growth and popularity.
4. Flexibility: Thanks to the added plasticizers, PVC is very flexible, making it perfect for an inflatable kayak that needs to be easily inflated and deflated.
Wrapping Up
PVC inflatable kayaks have revolutionized kayaking, making it more accessible and enjoyable for everyone from beginners to seasoned pros. By blending remarkable durability, UV resistance, affordability, and flexibility, PVC stands tall as the material of choice in inflatable kayaks.
It’s essential, however, to keep in mind that not all PVC inflatable kayaks are created equal. Quality can vary significantly based on factors such as the thickness of the PVC, the specific type of PVC used, the quality of the construction, and the quality of the other components. Thus, it is always wise to do thorough research and read reviews before investing in an inflatable kayak.
Paddle safely and enjoy the wonders of the water with the right PVC inflatable kayak by your side. Happy Kayaking!
