All you need to know about Hypalon: a versatile, durable synthetic material
Hypalon is a synthetic material widely used in many fields for its exceptional properties.
Whether in the marine, aerospace, or other applications, Hypalon is valued for its resistance, durability and polyvalence.
In this article, we'll explore in depth the characteristics of Hypalon and its varied uses.
What is Hypalon
Origins and history of the material
Hypalon is a specific type of chlorosulfonated rubber, first developed in the 1950s by DuPont. Originally, this material was mainly used in the military industry for items such as life jackets and chemical protection suits. Since then, it has found its way into a multitude of civil and industrial applications.
Composition and chemical properties of Hypalon
Hypalon is made from polyethylene chloride and sulfonamide. This combination gives the material unique properties, including excellent resistance to weathering, UV rays and ozone. What's more, its molecular structure gives it great flexibility and good elasticity, making it suitable for applications requiring frequent handling and deformation.
Advantages and disadvantages of Hypalon compared with other materials
The main advantages of Hypalon over other materials lie in its exceptional resistance to harsh environmental conditions. It can withstand temperature fluctuations, sunlight, sea water, chemicals and abrasion. What's more, Hypalon is renowned for its long service life and low maintenance. However, its production cost is relatively high compared with other more common synthetic materials, which sometimes limits its use in certain sectors.
Applications of Hypalon
Use in the marine industry
One of Hypalon's best-known applications is in the marine industry. It is widely used for the manufacture of inflatable boats, canoes and kayaks due to its resistance to seawater and UV rays. Hypalon is also used for dock bumpers and guards, boules and diving equipment, ensuring durability and safety in these demanding environments.
Applications in the aerospace industry
In the aerospace field, Hypalon is used to manufacture seals, O-rings (torus-shaped / circular ring) and other critical components requiring high weather resistance and durability. It is also used for fuel tank liners and equipment covers to protect against the extreme environmental conditions encountered on space missions.
Other areas of use
Outside the marine and aerospace industries, Hypalon finds many other applications. It is used in the manufacture of sports equipment such as protective gloves, knee pads and boots, thanks to its ability to resist abrasion and chemicals. Hypalon is also used as a lining material for chemical storage tanks andwater pipes, ensuring the integrity of transported substances.
Advanced properties of Hypalon
Weather, UV and ozone resistance
One of Hypalon's most outstanding features is its exceptional resistance to harsh environmental conditions. It resists the damaging effects of sun rays, salt water and ozone, making it ideal for outdoor applications.
Durability and abrasion resistance
Thanks to its chemical composition and molecular structure, Hypalon is highly abrasion resistant. It can withstand repeated rubbing without degrading, making it a popular choice for heavy-duty applications.
Flexibility and elasticity
Hypalon retains its flexibility even at extremely low temperatures, making it suitable for cold environments and harsh climates. It is also elastic, enabling it to return to its original shape after being deformed.
Chemical resistance
Hypalon is resistant to many chemicals, including oils, greases, acids and bases, making it a reliable material for applications where chemical resistance is essential.
Maintenance and conservation of Hypalon
To preserve the life of Hypalon, it's essential to follow a few good maintenance practices. Clean surfaces regularly using soft soapy water and avoid aggressive solvents which could damage the material. Store it in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight when not in use.
Find out more: How to maintain your RIB boat
Comparison with other similar materials
Hypalon stands out for its weather and chemical resistance compared with other synthetic materials such as neoprene and PVC. Although the latter may be less costly, Hypalon offers a longer service life and better overall resistance to demanding environmental conditions.
Find out more: PVC or Hypalon: Which to choose for your pneumatic tubes?
Conclusion
The use of Hypalon in repair fabrics for RIB boats by Orca Retail is justified by the exceptional properties of this material.
Hypalon offers outstanding resistance to weather, UV rays and abrasion, making it an ideal choice for demanding marine applications. Its durability and flexibility enable it to withstand the stresses and strains inherent in the marine environment, ensuring long life for repair fabrics. What's more, Hypalon is renowned for its chemical resistance, which is essential for repair fabrics that are likely to be exposed to seawater and various chemicals present in the marine environment.
By using Hypalon for its repair fabrics, Orca Retail guarantees its customers high-quality, reliable and durable products capable of withstanding the rigors of use at sea.