Choosing a swimming aid for fishing, hunting or outdoor activities on the water often leads to a dilemma between a rigid body and inflatable structures. boats Aquilon NDNDMThese are a successful hybrid that combines the transportability of inflatable sides and the rigidity of the low-pressure inflatable floor, and they allow you not only to navigate comfortably through a body of water, but also to plane confidently when installing an outboard motor, which is a critical factor for many water engines.
Manufacturer Akvilon It has proven itself as a reliable provider of solutions for complex operating conditions, using high-quality materials and thoughtful design solutions. The main difference between models with the acronym BNDD is the ability to quickly assemble and disassemble without the need to pump the bottom to high pressure, which significantly saves time and effort of the user. In this article, we will discuss in detail the design features, advantages and nuances of operating these floaters to help you make a balanced choice.
Design features and technology of BNDT
abbreviation NDMA It stands for "Low Pressure inflatable floor," and it's not just a marketing ploy, it's a specific engineering implementation. Unlike classic hard plywood or aluminum bottom (ND) boats, it uses a special cylinder separated by internal bracelets that, when pumped, create a rigid flat surface. boat keep the shape and get on plane with a minimum wave characteristic of hard-keel vessels.
Material for manufacture is a multilayer reinforced fabric PVCIt is highly resistant to puncture, ultraviolet and temperature changes, and an important element of the design is the presence of a perimeter hinge beam that protects the sides from abrasion against the berth or coastal slope, and many models are equipped with a keelson, a longitudinal gain band on the bottom, which takes on shocks when turbulent and protects the main cylinder from damage.
- 🚤 Assembly speed: The absence of heavy sleighs and the need to pump only one contour of the bottom reduces the time of preparation for descent to 10-15 minutes.
- 💪 Load capacity: The design of the NDND allows you to evenly distribute the load, providing high stability even when fully loaded with equipment.
- 🌊 Seaworthiness: The hard inflatable floor effectively dissects the wave, providing a dry cockpit and a comfortable landing of the crew.
At the first pumping of a new cylinder of NDND, let it "lie" under pressure for 2-3 hours, so that the material stretches and takes the final shape, then pump to the working value.
It is worth noting that low pressure technology involves the use of operating pressure in the range of 0.2-0.25 atmospheres, which is significantly lower than that of onboard cylinders (usually 0.25-0.3 atm and above), which reduces the risk of joints rupturing when heated in the sun, but requires careful control of pressure before each exit. Balloons made of dense fabric, often with additional protection against abrasive wear in places of contact with the ground.
Overview of popular models of the Aquilon line
The manufacturer's line includes a wide range of modifications designed for different use scenarios. For single anglers or a pair walk, compact models up to 3 meters long will be the best choice. modification length of 3.5 meters and more, which have a large buoyancy reserve.
Particular attention should be paid to the series with the index. Pro These boats often have increased height, which is important for cruising on large water in windy weather, and there is also a division by bottom type: some models have a flat bottom for calm water bodies, others have a pronounced keeliness for wave control.
Below is a comparative table of the main specifications of popular models, which will help to orient in the range:
| Model | Length (cm) | Width (cm) | Load capacity (kg) | Recommended motor (hp) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Akvilon 290 | 290 | 135 | 350 | 5 |
| Akvilon 320 | 320 | 145 | 450 | 5-8 |
| Akvilon 360 Pro | 360 | 160 | 600 | 9.9-15 |
| Akvilon 420 | 420 | 180 | 800 | 20-30 |
When choosing a specific modification, it is important to take into account not only the dimensions, but also the weight in the assembled form. Transportation Boats in the trunk of a passenger car are a frequent requirement, and here the NDND models are outperforming the hard-floor competitors, as they are easier to pack in compact bags. The kit weight usually varies from 25 to 60 kg depending on size and configuration.
Advantages and disadvantages of inflatable floor
The transition to a low-pressure inflatable floor has some undeniable advantages, but it also has its limitations. comfort: soft bottom absorbs shocks against the wave, allowing you to sit or even lie in the boat without an additional mat, which is especially appreciated by anglers who spend many hours on the water, as the load on the back and legs is reduced.
But the downsides are not to be ignored: Inflated bottoms are more vulnerable to sharp objects on the bottom of a pond or shore than aluminum or plywood slate. Although modern PVC fabrics are very durable, the risk of puncture remains, especially when mooring near a rocky shore. In addition, in high headwinds, flat inflated bottoms can create a sailing effect if not used. kielson Or extra weights.
⚠️ Attention: Do not leave a fully pumped NDND boat in direct sunlight for a long time unattended. Heating the air inside the cylinders can lead to a critical increase in pressure and strain of the seams.
Another aspect is the longevity of the geometry, and over time, when you're actively exploited, the inflated bottom can be slightly bent at the junctions with the sides, which in theory can reduce the speed performance slightly compared to the hard floor, but for recreational use and recreational fishing, this difference is almost imperceptible. Repairability Such structures are high: small damage is easily eliminated by remplekt.
The secret to fast drying
Once used, the NDND boat does not have to be completely disassembled, just unscrew the valve, compress the cylinders to release the bulk of the air, then leave it in the straightened form in the shade for 2-3 hours, internal moisture will quickly evaporate through the open valves.
Assembly and preparation for operation
The process of assembling a boat with NDND is much easier than that of a classic model, first of all, you need to spread the boat on a flat surface, removing sharp objects, branches and stones, then pump the bottom balloon, and it is important not to overdo it: the pressure should be enough to straighten the folds, but not excessive, so as not to damage the internal partitions.
After the bottom is prepared, the side cylinders are pumped, and it is recommended to use a pressure pump to monitor the parameters, since it is difficult to determine the correct pressure by eye. squirt-board (if it is removable) and attachments: seats, fishing rod holders, anchor rift.
☑️ Checklist before getting on the water
It's important to keep the sequence of actions in order to avoid distortions in the structure. If the boat is stored assembled but deflated, the preparation process takes a few minutes. When stored in the bag, time increases, but still remains within reasonable limits. Valves. Modern models usually have protection from sand and dirt, which makes maintenance easier.
Maintenance and care of PVC
Long life of the boat Akvilon After each outing, especially if it's in salt water or a dirty pond, the structure needs to be rinsed with fresh water, which prevents the salt from crystallizing in the seams and the tissue from being destroyed by aggressive microorganisms.
Drying is a critical step, and even a small amount of moisture left inside the case or between layers of fabric during packaging can lead to mold and a bad smell that is difficult to get rid of. Dry the boat in the shade, as ultraviolet light is the main enemy of polymeric materials, causing them to age and lose elasticity.
- 🧼 Cleanup: Use a soft sponge and soap solution to remove contaminants. Avoid aggressive chemicals and solvents.
- 🌡️ Temperature: Keep the boat at temperatures between -20 and +40 degrees Celsius, away from the heaters.
- 🔧 Conservation: Before long-term storage (winter), it is recommended to treat the fabric with special protective compounds for PVC.
Check the joints and valves regularly, and the appearance of small air bubbles when pressed on a pumped soapy water balloon signals a microcrack that must be sealed immediately. Prevention It is always cheaper than a major repair.
Proper drying and storage in a case at room temperature is the guarantee that the boat will last you more than 10 years without losing its tightness.
Water safety and expert advice
Any boat requires safety, and NDND boats are very stable, but that doesn't mean they can't be turned over. Overload is the most common cause of problems. Always consider passport capacityThis includes the weight of people, motor, fuel and equipment.
Special attention should be paid to the mounting of the motor. The transom board should be installed strictly perpendicular to the bottom and securely fixed. Displacement of the motor during movement can lead to loss of control and even overturning. Also, remember the anchor: even in calm water, a sudden gust of wind can quickly carry a light boat from the shore.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to operate a boat with damaged seams or punctures, and even a small hole can quickly turn into a big problem if the boat is far from the shore.
Keep your life jackets with you. Having life jackets for every passenger is not just a formality, it's a necessity. In cold water, you count for minutes, and an inflatable boat won't save a person without a vest if they're overboard. Security It should be priority number one.
Final selection and prospects for use
Boats Aquilon NDM They are great for those looking for a balance between comfort, speed and mobility, ideal for fishing, diving, family cruising, and even rescue operations because of their lightness and unsinkability. The low-pressure inflatable floor design has proven to be effective in a variety of climates.
When buying, you should pay attention to the equipment: the presence of a pump, remix, bags and quality seats can significantly save your budget. It is also important to check the warranty from the manufacturer and the availability of service centers in your area. A competent approach to choosing and caring will allow you to enjoy water walks for many years.
lifehack
If you do not have space to store an inflated boat, and fiddle with pumping laziness, consider storing in a half-deflated state (with a little residual pressure) in the garage or on the balcony, covered with a dense cloth from the sun. This will speed up the assembly by 2 times.
In conclusion, we can say that the production of PVC boats has stepped forward, and modern models are not much inferior to rigid hulls in terms of seaworthiness, the main thing is to choose the right size for your tasks and follow the rules of operation. Aquilon boats with NDNDM are one of the market leaders in terms of price-quality ratio in their segment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use the Aquilon boat in winter or in cold weather?
You can use the boat at low temperatures, but with caution. PVC material becomes rigid in the cold and less elastic, which increases the risk of damage on impact. You also need to carefully monitor the pressure, because in the cold it drops, and when you skip into the heat increases sharply. You should only store the boat in the winter in a dry room at plus temperature.
What is the maximum pressure that can be applied to the NDND cylinders?
The working pressure for the bottom cylinder is usually 0.2-0.25 atm (about 3-4 PSI), and for the onboard ones - up to 0.3 atm. Exceed these values, specified in the data sheet of a particular model, categorically impossible, since this will lead to rupture of seams or deformation of the structure, especially in hot weather.
What is the difference between a boat with a hard bottom (ND)?
The main difference is the floor design: NDND has an inflatable floor, which makes the boat lighter, more compact when assembled and more comfortable (softer) on the go. Boats with hard bottoms (plywood, aluminum) are more resistant to punctures from below, but heavier, more scalable during transportation and require more time to assemble.
Is it difficult to seal a puncture on your own in the field?
No, it's not that hard. The boat always comes with a remix with a piece of cloth and glue, the surface is cleaned, degreased, glue applied, and a patch is put in, it's important to let the glue dry as instructed. For more serious damage, you better contact the service.