The polyvinyl chloride inflatable boat is not just a boat, it's a complex structure that requires proper equipment to operate safely on the water. One of the key elements that is often underestimated before a critical situation arises is the following: squirt-penIt is this component that allows you to tow, moor at the dock or rescue a person overboard, and the wrong choice or negligent installation of this element can lead to the loss of expensive property.
Many owners face a situation where the pens installed by the factory are not strong enough or simply lost in the process of active fishing. tuning The market offers a variety of options, from simple plastic brackets to reinforced metal structures with a rotary mechanism, and understanding the differences between them is the first step to safety on the water.
In this article, we will take a look at how to choose the perfect pouch for your inflatable boat, which materials are best against aggressive marine environments and how to properly install so as not to damage the cylinders. We will look at the technical nuances that are often overlooked by beginners, and give practical tips for maintenance of accessories. Your safety depends on the reliability of each loop and bolt.
Design features and types of rim pens
The pen-cuff is a metal bracket attached to a solid base that is attached to the surface of the boat. The main difference between the various models is the mounting mechanism and the materials used. The most common models with a swivel base that allows you to change the angle of thrust without risking damage to the fabric. PVCThis is especially important when mooring in windy weather or on a wave, when the load vector is constantly changing.
There are also static models that are rigidly fixed in one position, which are generally cheaper but require more careful handling. Stainless steel AISI 316 is considered the gold standard for marine fittings due to its exceptional corrosion resistance. brass analogs are also popular, but require more careful care and varnishing to prevent oxidation.
⚠️ Warning: Using conventional structural steel without galvanizing or coating in salt water will cause rust to appear after the first season, which can spoil the boat's appearance and weaken the structure.
When choosing, consider the presence of a slip bearing or sleeve at the base of the rotary friction rim, which reduces friction between the movable part and the base, ensuring smooth running even under load. The absence of lubrication or bearing will lead to jamming of the mechanism, after which the handle will become useless at a critical moment.
Criteria for choosing a reliable fittings
Choosing the right diamond is a balance between strength, weight and aesthetics. The first and most important parameter is the balance between strength and weight. loading capacityFor inflatable boats up to 3.5 meters long, models with loads up to 150-200 kg are usually sufficient. Larger boats, especially those used with a motor, require reinforced fittings that can withstand jerks when towing.
The second criterion is the quality of the base, which is wide enough to spread the load over a large area of tissue, preventing it from rupturing, often in the form of a rectangular or oval plate with holes under the bolts, and it is important that the edges of the plate be smooth, without sharp barbs that could damage. balloon when it's deformed.
The third aspect is compatibility with existing mounts, and if you're replacing the lost scavenging, try to find a model that has the same distance between the mounting holes, which eliminates the need to drill new holes into the fabric, which is always stressful for the owner. If you're installing it from scratch, choose a place with the maximum flat surface area.
- 🔩 Material: Preference is given to AISI 316 stainless steel or high-quality brass with nickel.
- 📏 Size: The length of the brace should allow comfortably to skip the carbine or the faucet, but not be excessively large.
- 🔄 Mechanism: The rotating base is much more convenient than the static one for universal use.
- 💰 Price: Do not skimp on fittings, the difference in cost is minimal, and the risks are great.
The main priority when choosing is the AISI 316 material and the presence of a rotary mechanism to reduce the load on the tissue attachment points.
Necessary tools and materials for installation
Installing a wrench pen yourself requires a minimum set of tools, but accuracy in execution. You will need a drill with a 5 mm diameter drill (or according to the specification of bolts), a screwdriver (cross or flat), a wrench and a marker. acetone or a special PVC cleaner) and a sealant.
Special attention should be paid to the choice of sealant. Conventional silicone from the construction store may not be suitable, as it contains acetic acid, which is harmful to certain types of PVC and metals. Use neutral silicone sealant or specialized adhesives for PVC, such as: Texacoll or DesmocollIf you plan to stick the base.
In the complete set of quality crums usually already have everything you need: bolts, nuts, washers and gaskets. However, experienced boaters recommend replacing the regular nuts with self-contradictory (with a nylon insert) or use grover washers, this will prevent the fastener from spontaneously unscrewing from the vibration of the motor and the shocks of waves.
☑️ Preparation for the installation of the pom pen
Step-by-step instructions for installing a rim pen
The installation process begins with careful markings. Place the boat on a flat, hard surface, but do not inflate it to working pressure at once - it is better to leave slightly flat for ease of operation, but with the preservation of shape. Apply the base of the dim to the selected place (usually the bow or sides in the cockpit area) and circle the outline with a marker.
Then you have to drill the holes, and you have to do this carefully so that you don't damage the opposite side if the drill goes through. Use a depth limiter or control the process visually. The diameter of the hole should be strictly the diameter of the bolts to ensure a tight landing without backlashes. After drilling, be sure to clear the edges of the holes from the burrs.
Sequence of action:1. Degrease the surface.
2. Apply a layer of sealant.
3. Set the rum and tighten the bolts.
4. to withstand the time of polymerization (24 hours).
Apply a thin layer of sealant on the base of the frock and around the holes on the fabric. Put bolts, put on the washers and tighten the nuts. Don't drag the fastener too much so as not to push the fabric, but ensure a tight fit. Leave the boat to dry for a day at room temperature. Full polymerization of the sealant's adhesive properties will provide waterproofing and reliability.
⚠️ Warning: Never put the boat under load (inflating to maximum, launching) immediately after installation.
Comparison of models and technical specifications
To make the choice easier, we present a comparative table of the popular types of free pens available on the market, which are averaged and can vary depending on the manufacturer.
| Type of ribe | Materials | Load capacity (kg) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| The turning AISI 316 | Nerzh. | 200-500 | High corrosion resistance, rotation 360° |
| Static brass | brass | 100-250 | Aesthetic appearance, requires varnishing |
| Reinforced with bearing | 316 steel + Teflon | 500+ | For heavy boats, smooth running under load |
| Composite | Plastics. | 50-100 | Light, not rusting, but less durable |
As you can see from the table, for serious tasks the best choice is to stainless steelComposite options are suitable only for light inflatable mattresses or as additional attachment points that do not carry a critical load. Brass is good for fresh water, but quickly lose its appearance without maintenance at sea.
The secret of the longevity of thread
To nuts on the crum-pens do not stick to the ground through the season, when installing, apply graphite lubricant or copper spray anticor to the bolt threads. This will make it easy to unscrew them even after a year of operation in salt water.
Service and typical problems
Even the best fittings require attention. The main enemy of metal parts on a boat is galvanic corrosion and mechanical damage. Regularly, at least once a season, check the nut tightening. Motor vibration and shocks to waves can weaken the connection. If you notice a backlash, immediately tighten the fastener.
Look around the base of the poultry, scuff, PVC color change, or microcracks can signal that the load is not being distributed correctly or sand is being hit by the puck, and the poultry must be dismantled, degreased and re-installed, possibly with additional PVC reinforcement pens.
Lubrication of moving parts is another important point. If your rum starts to creak or twist tightly, rinse it with fresh water and apply silicone lubrication. Do not use solidol or litol, as they collect sand and dust, turning into an abrasive porridge that will disable the mechanism.
- 🧼 Wash: After each exit to salt water, rinse the fittings with fresh water.
- 🔍 Inspection: Check once a month for no corrosion or cracks.
- 🛠️ Repair: If you find deep corrosion, replace the element immediately.
If the thread on the bolts of the Roma still rust and does not unscrew, try to warm the nut with a building hairdryer (caution with PVC!) or use WD-40 liquid, leaving it for several hours.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I stick a curly pen without drilling holes?
Theoretically, there are high-strength adhesives that can withstand the strain of the tear, but for elements that carry the load of the load on the surface. tow or rescue, mechanical fasteners (bolts) are a mandatory safety standard, and the adhesive can be layered under dynamic load or at temperature extremes.
What diameter of bolts is optimal for a PVC boat?
The most common standard for inflatable boats is diameter bolts. M5 or M6Use of thinner bolts (art.M4) is not recommended because of the risk of cutting under load, and thicker ones may unnecessarily injure the fabric of the cylinder.
Do I need to lubricate the PVC fabric under the washers when installing?
Yes, using a sealant or a special glue for PVC under the washers and the base of the dimp is necessary, it creates a monolithic structure, prevents moisture from entering between the layers and distributes the load, reducing the risk of tissue breaking through.
Why do rust-resistant stainless rythes?
Often under the guise of stainless steel, AISI 316 sells cheap analogues (AISI 201 or 430), which do not have sufficient nickel and molybdenum content, and rust can appear in places of contact with other metals (galvanic vapor) or due to damage to the protective oxide film.
How to replace lost water with water?
Emergency water replacement is not possible. However, if the regular rum is lost, you can use a temporary solution: run a strong phala through the handle for carrying or use special clamps if the design of the boat allows, but the full installation of a new rum requires dry conditions and time for drying the glue.