Choosing a first or new fishing and recreational swimmer often leads to a variety of specifications, among which the shape of the bottom and cylinders plays a key role. PVC boat with oval cylinders It's a middle ground between classic circular models and complex rigid-bottom structures, and it's this geometry that makes the trade-off between load capacity, stability and speed on the water surface.
Modern production technologies allow you to create polyvinyl chloride High-strength designs, where the shape of the cylinder cross section directly affects the behavior of the vessel on the wave. If you plan to actively fish or water tourism, understanding the difference between the oval and round section will help to avoid mistakes when buying. In this article, we will discuss in detail why the oval profile becomes the standard for serious water engines.
Many beginners mistakenly believe that the shape of the cylinder affects only the appearance, but this is a fundamental engineering parameter. Oval-shape It allows the center of gravity to be lowered, which is critical for the safety of the crew when they go out into the open water.
Constructive features of the oval profile
The main difference is the geometry of the air chambers, and unlike circular cylinders, which are the same height across the width, the oval profile is flattened at the top and bottom. sail down The lowering of the height of the boat above the water without losing the volume of the inner chamber is the main advantage of this design.
Manufacturers are using reinforced PVC The high density, which, when pumped to the working pressure (usually 0.2-0.25 atm), keeps the shape. Oval cylinders often consist of several compartments, which increases the overall safety. In the case of a puncture of one of the cylinders, the boat will remain afloat, although its stability will decrease.
Welding technology
Modern boats with oval cylinders are assembled by hot welding with high frequency current (HF), which ensures the monolithic seam, which is not inferior in strength to the main material, unlike adhesive compound, which can dry out over time.
It is important to note that the rigidity of the structure depends on the quality. material Oval cylinders are often fitted with a perimeter timber that protects the board from impacts on the pier or stones, and this protects the life of the product in active use.
Comparison with round cylinders
To understand the value of an oval shape, you need to do a comparative analysis with traditional round cylinders. Round cylinders provide maximum volume at minimum weight, but they create a high wall around passengers. sailability It makes the boat less manageable in high winds.
The oval profile, on the other hand, allows passengers and cargo to be placed below the top of the cylinder, which not only improves aerodynamics, but also increases the level of the upper cylinder. resilience When you're driving on the motor, the difference in boat behavior becomes apparent: the oval models prowl less and require less steering adjustments.
There's also a difference in maintainability, and round cylinders are easier to make, so they cost less, but if your goal is not just to swim by the shore, but to feel safe on the water. outboardThe oval wins in terms of performance, and here's a table below to make a visual comparison of performance.
| Characterization | Round cylinders | Oval cylinders |
|---|---|---|
| Sailing | High. | Medium/Low |
| Load capacity | Medium | High. |
| Speed of travel | Below. | Higher (at the same power) |
| Cost | Budgetary | Medium/High |
| Resilience on the wave | Weak (pumps) | Good. |
The influence of form on seaworthiness
Seaworthiness is the ability of a vessel to withstand the effects of turbulence and wind. A boat with oval cylinders has a lower landing, which automatically reduces the impact of the vessel. pitchingPassengers feel more confident because the center of mass is closer to the water, which is especially important for fishing, where static body position is required.
When you move against a wave, the oval board cuts water differently than the round one, and the lower air resistance allows you to achieve a higher speed at the same power. boat-engineFuel savings can be as high as 15-20% over long distances, which is a significant factor for hiking.
⚠️ Warning: Despite improved seaworthiness, boats with oval cylinders are not fully operational boats, and entry into the high seas or large reservoirs under storm warning is strictly prohibited by GIMS regulations.
Also worth mentioning is the splash protection, and oval-type designs are often supplemented by special ones. squirterIt's a system that directs water flow to the sides without splashing passengers and the engine, and it keeps the gear dry and prevents salt water from getting into the machinery.
Materials and structural strength
The basis of durability of any inflatable boat is the material. reinforced PVCThe synthetic base (frame) provides tensile strength, and the polymer layers are responsible for tightness and protection against ultraviolet.
The thickness of the fabric usually varies from 750 to 1100 g/m2. denser materials are used for boats designed for powerful engines. It is important to check the quality certificates when buying, as the market is saturated with products using high-performance engines. recycledIt quickly loses its elasticity.
When buying a boat, pay attention to the seams. They should be smooth, without bloating or bubbles. Ask the seller to show the internal seams, if the design allows, the quality of their execution indicates control in production.
Resistance to abrasion is another important parameter. Oval cylinders often have additional reinforcement at the bottom, where contact with the ground occurs when being pulled ashore. timber from dense rubber around the perimeter significantly reduces the risk of puncture on sharp stones or shells.
Operation and preparation for the season
The proper preparation of the boat for operation begins well before it is launched. The first step is to check the pressure in the cylinders. For oval profiles, it is critical not to pump them in the sun, because when you heat the air expands, and the air is not very good. pressure It can exceed the permissible limits, damaging the seams.
Before each fishing, it is recommended to conduct a visual inspection. Pay special attention to the docking places of cylinders and the transom. The presence of sand or fine debris between the cylinder and the bottom can lead to rubbing the material when moving on the water.
☑️ Checklist before launching
At the end of the season, you need to thoroughly dry the boat, and the humidity left in the folds of oval cylinders can lead to the formation of mold, which destroys the water. polymerStore the product should be spread out or half-folded in a warm room, avoiding sudden temperature changes.
Repair and maintenance
Even the strongest boat can get damaged, repairing oval cylinders is not much different from repairing round ones, but requires carefulness because of the complex shape. polyurethaneIt's important to degrease the surface before you patch it.
If the damage is on the seam or valve, it is better to contact a specialized service. Self-repair of complex units can violate the tightness of the entire structure. Regular maintenance includes lubricating the valves with silicone to prevent sticking and checking the integrity of the seams.
⚠️ Warning: Never use Moment glue or other cyanacrylate-based household adhesives to repair PVC. They make the material brittle and do not provide the elastic connection that is needed for inflatable structures.
Timely maintenance extends the life of your swimmer for many years. coatboardIf it is wooden, it should not swell from moisture, and the lacquer coating should be renewed once a season to protect against rotting.
Tips for Choosing the First Boat
When choosing a model, be price-oriented, but also your real needs. If you plan to fish alone in small bodies of water, you will need a compact model. load capacity and a powerful transcem.
Pay attention to the package. slut It's a great comfort, and the oval cylinders, combined with the hard sleigh, create a platform that's similar in performance to the boat.
The optimal choice for universal use is a boat 3.2-3.6 meters long with oval cylinders, high-pressure inflatable sleigh and a transom for an outboard motor up to 10 hp.
Don't forget the weight assembled. If you have to carry a boat alone, every 5 kg matters. Oval cylinders can be slightly heavier than round ones because of the more material, but that weight is offset by improved handling.
What is the optimal pressure in the oval cylinders?
The optimum working pressure for most oval-boats is 0.2-0.25 atmospheres (about 3-4 psi). Exceeding this value can cause the seams to rupture, especially in hot weather. Always use a gauge for accurate checks.
Can I put the engine on a boat with oval cylinders?
Yes, you can and you should. The oval shape of the cylinders is designed to use outboard motors, and it is important to comply with the power limit specified by the manufacturer and properly install the transom plates to prevent transom bending.
What to wash the boat after fishing?
Use regular water and a soft sponge. You can use a weak soap solution to remove persistent contaminants. Aggressive chemicals, gasoline or solvents are prohibited because they destroy the PVC coating.
How long are the seams on these boats?
When properly operated and stored, hot welds last as long as the boat material (10-15 years) and require more careful attention and may require restoration after 5-7 years of active use.