Jerryborg Marine Ship Launching Airbags

Marine launching airbags are also known as marine upslip airbags, ship downslip balloons, inflatable marine airbags, or boat lifting airbags. These airbags have a special rubber construction. It overcomes the limits of traditional water launch methods. The flexible ship-launching method is an emerging and promising technology in the field of shipbuilding and ship repair. This technology solves the limits of traditional fixed rail launches. It also improves the productivity of small and medium-sized shipyards. Due to its time-saving, economical, flexible, and safe features, it has been widely used by shipyards around the world.

These marine airbags are widely used for the launching and landing of cargo ships, the lifting of sunken ships, and the rescue of stranded ships. Flexible launch technology provides significant versatility. Rubber airbags help the shipbuilding and maritime industries. They reduce workload, save time, and cut effort and investment needs.

Jerryborg Marine is a leading manufacturer of rubber airbags/marine inflatable airbags compliant with ISO14409:2011 or CB/T 3795 standards. We provide ship launching, repair, and mobilization services to shipyards and trading companies on six continents. Our ship-launching bladders come in diameters up to 2.5m and lengths up to 26m. They can support and carry structures weighing over 10,000 tonnes. Some of our marine airbags can reach diameters of up to 4.0m for salvage buoyancy.

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What Makes High Quality Ship Launching Airbags

Synthetic-Tire-Cord Reinforcement Layer

The reinforcement layer in the ship launching airbags consists of rubber-dipped synthetic-tire-cord fabrics. The synthetic-tire cord layers are made for a specific purpose. They are wrapped at optimal angles using the exclusive “Holistic Intertwined Technology.” This tech ensures even stress distribution and pressure maintenance inside the tire. Jerryborg Marine utilizes 1400dtex/3 type synthetic-tire-cord fabric for these airbags. The fabric boasts a breaking strength of over 310 N per cord, surpassing the requirements of ISO14409:2011. As a reinforcement, the warp density should be around (90±5) cords per 100 mm width, with a breaking strength exceeding 205 N per cord.

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Item Unit Technical Standard Measured Value
Breaking Strength N/cord ≥303.8 314.5
CV of Breaking Strength ％ ≤5.0 1.6
Elongation at Specified Load ％ 8.0±0.8 8.26
Elongation at Break ％ 22.0±2.0 21.6
CV of Breaking at Break ％ ≤7.5 1.7
H-Drawing Force N/cm ≥166.6 193.8
Dry Heat Shrinkage(160C×2ming） ％ ≤6.5 5.18
Moisture/Water Content ％ ≤1.0 0.30
Dip Pick-up ％ 4.5±1.0 4.36
Twist First Twist T/m 320±15 319.4
Twist Second 320±15 320.5

Outer Rubber Layer

Protecting the airbag from external elements is the outer rubber layer. This layer is made from a durable rubber compound designed to resist abrasion, UV rays, and seawater. It acts as a shield against sharp objects, rough surfaces, and other potential hazards encountered during the launching process. The outer rubber’s robustness and elasticity contribute to the overall durability and safety of the airbag, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of ship launching.

marine rubber airbags structure

1、Outer Rubber Layer: Thicker than industry average level
2、Reinforcement Layer: 1400dtex/V2-2 two strands and Nylon 6 synthetic tire cord

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Before the production of airbags, it’s essential to test both the outer rubber layer to ensure they conform to the standards outlined in ISO14409:2011. The testing should follow the specified methods. These methods are detailed in the corresponding International Standards listed in the table.

NO. TEST ITEM REQUIRED VALUE TEST METHOD
1 Tensile strength, MPa ≥18 ISO 37
2 Elongation at break, % ≥400 ISO 37
3 Hardness, ° (Shore A) 60 ±10 Row 3, Content 2
4 Tear strength, N/cm ≥400 ISO 34-1
5 Compression set, % (70 °C ± 1 °C, 22 h) ≤30 ISO 815-1
6 After thermal ageing at 70 °C ± 1 °C, 96 h Holding of pull lengthening, % ≥80 ISO 188
7 Holding of elongation at break, % ≥80 ISO 188
8 Change of hardness, ° (Shore A) ≤8 ISO 7619-1
9 Static ozone ageing at 40 °C ×96 h [ozone concentration (50 ± 5) × 108], extension 20 % No crack ISO 1431-1

End Fittings of Rubber Airbags

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Rubber Airbags End Fittings

A: Air Inflation End (SUS304):
1、Third generation anti-explosion airbag head design in high quality stainless steel
2、Stainless steel air inflation tee-junction
3、Vibration-proof pressure gauge
4、Stainless steel three-piece type ball valve
5、Stainless steel inflation extension tube

B: Sealed End (SUS304):
1 and 2：Third generation anti-explosion airbag head made of high quality casting stainless steel

Marine Ship Launching Airbags Features and Advantages

Flexible and cost-effective

Flexible and cost-effective

This approach allows for adjusting to different ship sizes and designs, leading to a reduction in costs. Its flexibility means it can be easily modified or upgraded, providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional ship launching methods.

Strong adaptability

Strong adaptability

The system is designed to accommodate a wide range of ramp configurations. Whether the ramp is steep or has a gradual incline, or if it’s perfectly level or slightly uneven, the system can handle these variations effectively.

Reduce underwater work

Reduce underwater work

The system minimizes the need for large-scale construction projects below the waterline. These underwater projects are expensive and environmentally damaging. Less underwater construction also means faster installation times and lower shipyard maintenance costs.

Long lifespan

Long lifespan

The system’s materials and design ensure durability over many years, lasting 6-8 years. Even under continuous use and during periods of storage. This longevity reduces the frequency of replacements, offering a more sustainable and cost-effective solution over time.

Resistant to Abrasion

Resistant to Abrasion

The rubber airbag has 6 to 12 layers of reinforcement. They can withstand most wear and punctures and are strong enough for even the most demanding situations. Marine air bags can withstand extreme weather conditions, rough oceans, and other challenging environments.

Super-High tensile strength

Super-High tensile strength

The system’s materials are engineered to endure high levels of stress and pressure(reaching up to 0.8 MPa), making it ideal for heavy-duty ship launching tasks. The ability to operate under such high pressure ensures safety and efficiency in handling large vessels.

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Ship Launching Airbag Technical Specifications

You can choose the diameter and adequate length of the marine launching airbag according to your project needs. The specs below are our standard range. But we can also provide other specs for marine airbags to fit customer requirements. You can also contact us for more information about rubber airbags. We supply you with marine airbag guides and instructions.

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Series Model Diameter（m） Working Pressure（Mpa） Working Height（m） Beating Capacity（Ton/m）
0.4D 0.5D 0.6D 0.4D 0.5D 0.6D
S1 S10 0.8 0.2 0.32 0.4 0.48 15.1 12.6 10
1 0.16 0.4 0.5 0.6 15.1 12.6 10
1.2 0.14 0.48 0.6 0.72 15.8 13.2 10.6
1.5 0.11 0.6 0.75 0.9 15.5 13 10.4
S11 0.8 0.19 0.32 0.4 0.48 14.3 11.9 9.5
1 0.15 0.4 0.5 0.6 14.1 11.8 9.4
1.2 0.13 0.48 0.6 0.72 14.7 12.2 9.8
1.5 0.1 0.6 0.75 0.9 14.1 11.8 9.4
S12 0.8 0.24 0.32 0.4 0.48 18.1 15.1 12.1
1 0.19 0.4 0.5 0.6 17.9 14.9 11.9
1.2 0.16 0.48 0.6 0.72 18.1 15.1 12.1
1.5 0.13 0.6 0.75 0.9 18.4 15.3 12.2
1.8 0.1 0.72 0.9 1.08 17 14.1 11.3
S2 S20 1 0.24 0.4 0.5 0.6 22.6 18.8 15.1
1.2 0.2 0.48 0.6 0.72 22.6 18.8 15.1
1.5 0.16 0.6 0.75 0.9 22.6 18.8 15.1
1.8 0.13 0.72 0.9 1.08 22 18.4 14.7
2 0.12 0.8 1 1.2 22.6 18.8 15.1
S21 1 0.27 0.4 0.5 0.6 25.4 21.2 17
1.2 0.23 0.48 0.6 0.72 26 21.7 17.3
1.5 0.18 0.6 0.75 0.9 25.4 21.2 17
1.8 0.15 0.72 0.9 1.08 25.4 21.2 17
2 0.14 0.8 1 1.2 26.4 22 17.6
S22 1 0.31 0.4 0.5 0.6 29.2 24.3 19.5
1.2 0.26 0.48 0.6 0.72 29.4 24..5 19.6
1.5 0.2 0.6 0.75 0.9 28.3 23.6 18.8
1.8 0.17 0.72 0.9 1.08 28.8 24 19.2
2 0.15 0.8 1 1.2 28.3 23.6 18.8
2.5 0.12 1 1.25 1.5 28.3 23.6 18.8
S3 S30 1 0.35 0.4 0.5 0.6 33 27.5 22
1.2 0.29 0.48 0.6 0.72 32.8 27.3 21.9
1.5 0.23 0.6 0.75 0.9 32.5 27.1 21.7
1.8 0.19 0.72 0.9 1.08 32.2 26.8 21.5
2 0.17 0.8 1 1.2 32 26.7 21.4
2.5 0.14 1 1.25 1.5 33 27.5 22

ISO 14409:2011 Airbag Ship Material Standard

Technical specifications for Ship Launching Airbags adhere to ISO 14409:2011. And the materials used in ship launching airbags conform to the following ISO standards:

ISO 34-1 for the determination of tear strength in vulcanized or thermoplastic rubber;

ISO 37, which assesses tensile stress-strain properties;

ISO 188 for evaluating accelerated ageing and heat resistance;

ISO 815-1 regarding the measurement of compression set;

and ISO 1431-1, covering resistance to ozone cracking in both vulcanized and thermoplastic rubber.

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How to Choose Suitable Ship Launching Airbags?

Before providing a competitive price and technical solution, there are essential questions to consider.

1. What type of ship is it?
2. Length of the ship?
3. Ship’s width?
4. Launch weight of the vessel?
5. Vessel’s DWT?
6. Surface type for ship construction ?(Dirt, concrete, etc.)
7. Water depth at initial entry?
8. Slipway angle? (Land)
9. Tide schedule at the site?
10. Working platform height? (The block stand height)
11. Propeller to water level distance?
12. Rear of ship to water entry distance?

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Acceptance Test for Commercial Ship Launching Airbags

  • Each Jerryborg Marine airbag for ship launching has a smooth, glossy surface free from cracks, blisters, delaminations, pits, or impurities.
  • The dimensions of Jerryborg Marine ship launching airbags are within ±3% of the rated working pressure.
  • The gas-tightness of these airbags is verified as per ISO14409 standards without any load. The airbags maintain less than 5% pressure loss of the rated working pressure within an hour.
  • Jerryborg Marine’s ship launching airbags have type approval, certified by CCS or BV, ensuring independent inspection of their performance. Type Approval Test is a crucial benchmark for manufacturers to qualify their ship launching airbags. Besides material, appearance, and dimensional accuracy, tests like Gas-tightness, Compression, Bearing Capacity, Bursting, and Compression-recovery are conducted.

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Comprehensive Inspection
Steps To Repair Marine Airbags

Ship Launching Airbags Burst Test

Burst tests on Jerryborg Marine’s ship launching airbags are in accordance with ISO 14409, certified by CCS, LR, DNV. Additionally, these airbags meet two Chinese industrial standards (CB/T 3837 – 1998, CB/T 3795 – 1996/2009) and one ISO standard (ISO 17682) for ship launching technology.

— CB/T 3837-1998 Technical requirements for ship airbag upgrade or launch (Shipbuilding Industry Standard of the People’s Republic of China)

— CB/T 3795-1996 / CB/T 3795-2009 Airbags for ships entering and exiting water (Shipping Industry Standard of the People’s Republic of China)

— ISO 17682 Ship Sand Sea Technology — Method of launching ships into the water using airbags.

FAQS About Ship Launching Airbags Manufacturers

Before providing a competitive price and technical solution, there are essential questions to consider.

1. What type of ship is it?
2. Length of the ship?
3. Ship’s width?
4. Launch weight of the vessel?
5. Vessel’s DWT?
6. Surface type for ship construction ?(Dirt, concrete, etc.)
7. Water depth at initial entry?
8. Slipway angle? (Land)
9. Tide schedule at the site?
10. Working platform height? (The block stand height)
11. Propeller to water level distance?
12. Rear of ship to water entry distance?

The weight of our rubber airbags varies a lot. It depends on their size and how they’re made. Typically, a standard airbag can weigh from 200 kilograms for smaller models up to approximately 2 tons for the largest sizes. Each airbag is designed to balance weight and strength optimally. This design ensures they are both manageable and capable of bearing substantial loads during ship launching and retrieval operations.

The appearance of wear on a newly purchased rubber airbag is a result of our comprehensive testing and quality assurance processes. Each airbag undergoes extensive testing under real-world conditions to ensure its durability, performance, and safety. These tests may leave superficial marks or minor wear signs on the airbag, which do not affect its functionality or longevity. This rigorous testing is a testament to our commitment to providing only the highest quality products to our clients.

We provide comprehensive certification for our rubber airbags. The certification ensures compliance with both international standards and industry best practices. Alongside the ISO 14409:2011 certification, each airbag comes with a detailed quality assurance certificate. This certificate has technical specs, test results, and a conformity declaration. It gives our clients full transparency. It also gives them confidence in our products’ safety and quality.

The price of our ship launching airbags is determined by several factors, including size, layer count, and specific technical requirements. We strive to offer competitive and transparent pricing to ensure our clients receive value for their investment. We provide detailed quotations tailored to the specific needs and specifications of each order, ensuring clarity and satisfaction for our clients.

Proper storage of rubber airbags is essential for maintaining their condition and extending their lifespan. They should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and ozone sources. Before storage, airbags should be thoroughly cleaned, deflated, and rolled or laid flat, avoiding sharp objects and excessive weight. Regular inspections during storage can prevent damage and ensure the airbags remain in optimal condition.

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+86 18765259568

[email protected]

No.1, Xishanqian Industrial Park, Jimo District 266200, Qingdao City, China.


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