What effect does the environment have on a marine vessel?
14th February, 2020
Marine vessels have to face the toughest of elements when they’re out at sea and in a dock. Although the components of a ship must be resistant to man-made factors such as engine steam, chemicals and oils, the environment presents new challenges. Learn more about the effect of the environment when out at sea and how rubber can help protect you and the vessel.
Seawater, wind & rain
The seals of a marine vessel are repeatedly exposed to seawater, wind and rain which is why they must be tightly sealed with durable material. Over time, salty water and weathering can cause some materials to erode which can affect door seals and gaskets. This can eventually lead to weakened seals, leaks and the possibility for water and wind to enter the vessel.
This is where rubber is a preferable option for sealing the vessel. Certain types of rubber such as natural rubber are high in strength and have high resistance to abrasion, making it a great choice for yacht seals and gaskets. Corner and end pieces made from rubber help to create a tighter seal which can again withstand repetitive wear and tear.
UV rays
As well as battling elements from the sea and cooler weathers, the vessel must have ozone and UV light resistance. Erosion from these can lead to premature ageing of seals and hatches which is where costs can rise with the need for regular replacements.
Hatch packing ensures that the doors on a ship have a watertight seal, the same as a gasket. Silicone is a good choice for this purpose as it can withstand extreme temperatures and is highly resistant to oxygen and UV rays. It’s also worth noting that rubber in these situations should be anti-corrosive and fire-resistant too.
Repetitive strain
From battling the waves to bumps in the harbour, a marine vessel has to face a lot of repetitive strain. This can cause damage to the sides of the ship which could be costly to fix or even dangerous to drive.
This is where bumpers and fenders should be used for protection. These are able to absorb the energy from knocks and bumps, reducing the risk of destruction or significant damage. They form a protective barrier and good choices of rubber for these situations include natural rubber, EPDM, styrene, butadiene and PVC.
As we can see, a marine vessel has to face a lot from the elements! Protect your assets and your ship with the right rubber equipment – get in touch to find out more.
