Difference between PVC and Hypalon tubes for inflatable boats
If you have a RIB or inflatable boat, or are looking to buy one, the choice of tube material is extremely important. Many boat owners wonder what the difference between PVC and Hypalon actually is. That difference determines how long your boat will last, how much upkeep it needs, and how well it stands up to sun, salt and other weather effects.
What is PVC?
PVC is a plastic to which softeners are added to make it flexible. This makes it ideal for inflatable boats. It is light, affordable and easy to process in factory production.
With Zodiac, PVC tubes & boats are heat-welded, creating a strong, airtight bond between the material layers. That is not the case with all makes, and this is exactly what delivers the quality you can expect from Zodiac.
A major advantage of PVC is its low weight. A PVC boat is easy to carry, store and quick to inflate. In addition, the price is often two to three times lower than with a Hypalon tube.
PVC does require a bit more upkeep. Sunlight and salt water can affect the colour or structure over time. By cleaning your boat regularly with approved care products, such as those from Blue Marine, the material stays strong and keeps its colour.
What is Hypalon (Neoprene-Hypalon)?
Neoprene-Hypalon is a combination of two high-grade types of rubber: neoprene (CR) and Hypalon (CSM). This material is mainly used for professional RIBs and rescue boats because of its exceptional durability. The larger RIBs from Zodiac are also supplied exclusively with a Neoprene Hypalon tube.
Where PVC is factory-welded, a Neoprene-Hypalon tube is made by hand. The seams are abraded, glued and finished with care. This makes the production process more costly, but the result is a tube that is more resistant to UV radiation, salt water and chemicals.
A Hypalon boat needs less upkeep than a PVC boat. The material ages more slowly, stays supple and keeps its colour and texture for much longer. The purchase price is higher, but it pays back in service life and lower upkeep costs.
PVC or Hypalon: which do you choose?
The right choice depends on how and how often you go boating:
- PVC is ideal for leisure use, for example a few months per year.
- Hypalon is the best choice for intensive or professional use, or if you boat all year round and the boat is exposed to the weather for long periods.
Whichever option you choose, it remains important to look after your boat properly. Rinse the tubes with clean water after every use, do not leave your boat in the sun for long periods, and always use products specially developed for inflatable boats, such as Blue Marine care products.
How do you recognise PVC or Hypalon?
- PVC can be recognised by the light texture of the material and the welded seams (as on Zodiac boats). Both sides of PVC are the same colour. The back of PVC material is always glossy. When you abrade PVC, no sanding dust is released.
- Neoprene-Hypalon, by contrast, usually has a smooth texture (except on special versions such as Carbon, Fabric Impression or Honeycomb) and glued seams. If you lightly abrade Hypalon, fine sanding dust is released. Over time, small “hairs” can appear along the edges of a Hypalon boat. The back of Hypalon material is (almost) always grey and not glossy, which is a clear identifying feature.
Conclusion
The difference between PVC and Hypalon determines the service life, upkeep needs and performance of your inflatable boat. PVC is light and affordable; Hypalon is stronger and more durable. Which choice is best depends on your boating style and how often you use the boat.
Not sure which material your boat has? Take contact with us, we will be happy to help.
