Apex Tool Group Boat A-24 RIB User Manual

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Inflatable boats are typically manufactured from a fabric that is reinforced 
with a coating on both sides, creating a material with several layers, as 
follows: 
 
Outer Layer – To protect the boat against the elements and abrasions, this 
layer must be extremely tough. The layer must be resistant to ultraviolet (UV) 
sun rays, as well as gasoline products, water, environmental pollutants and 
temperature variations. The two most popular products used on the market 
are Hypalon, the registered trade name for a DuPont patented product, and 
polyvinyl chloride, commonly known as PVC. 
 
Middle Layer- The boat’s strength comes from this layer, which is made 
from a heavy-weaved fabric of either polyester or nylon. Polyester is more 
expensive, but will stretch significantly less than nylon, has better resistance 
and better memory. 
 
Inner Layer – This layer ensures that the boat remains air-tight and that the 
seams are well bonded. The products used for this layer are usually 
Neoprene, Hypalon, or PVC 
 
Outer Layer – Hypalon or PVC? 
For the outer layer, we at APEX insist on using Hypalon®. This tough 
synthetic rubber by DuPont has proven to be the most resistant in the marine 
environment to UV sunrays, gasoline, oils, and extreme temperature. It also 
stands up to abrasions and punctures. Hypalon is an expensive material 
which requires hand gluing. Remember to ensure that the boat you buy has 
been built in humidity controlled environment (under 80%). If not, you may 
encounter problems with bonding.