Air leaks, bladder deformation, loss of performance and sailing hazards: seam separation on the bladders of your RIB boat is not to be taken lightly.

In this article, Orca Retail guides you step by step to better understand this phenomenon, and how to take action.

We'll start by looking at the causes and consequences of seam delamination, then move on to prevention and repair to solve your problem. 

So, what to do if the seams on your RIB are about to give way

Read on to find out!"

Causes of RIB seam delamination

Unfortunately, there's often more than one culprit when it comes to this phenomenon: many factors can influence the durability of your RIB seams and bladders. Let's review the ranks of the accused, in order to better prevent future risks: 

Manufacturing defects

• Shoddy materials: Using inferior materials can weaken seams.
• Manufacturing errors: Errors when manufacturing seams can make them more susceptible to delamination.

The misuse of the boat

• Contacts and bumps: Rubbing against docks, rocks or other boats can damage seams, as can bumping into obstacles.
• Boat overloading: Excessive overloading can exert significant pressure on seams, weakening them.
• Excessive speed: Excessive speed can create significant forces on flanges and seams.
• Jerky maneuvers: Jerky maneuvers can exert sudden pressure on seams, weakening them.

Time and weather conditions

• Sun: UV rays alter the structure of PVC, making it more brittle and fragile.
• Salt: Salt water corrodes seams and makes them porous.
• Humidity: Moisture encourages the development of mold and fungi, which can attack seams.
• Temperature changes: Variations in temperature embrittle PVC and can cause cracking.

Natural wear and tear

• Average lifespan: The seams on the flanges of a RIB boat have an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years. If your boat is in this range, it's quite normal to see wear and tear and to consider repairs or replacements.
• Other factors influencing service life: The maintenance, use and storage or wintering environment of the boat impact the longevity of seams.

In summary, many factors can weaken the seams on your RIB boat, and it's important to be aware of them in order to prevent and repair them.

Consequences of seam delamination

Seam delamination on a RIB boat can have serious consequences for its tubeability, performance and passenger safety.

Air leakage and pressure loss

When the seams come loose, the bladders lose air and pressure. This can compromise the boat's buoyancy, making it difficult to maneuver and susceptible tosinking into the water. In the event of a major leak, the boat may even sink.

Deformation of the bladders

Seam separation can also deform bladders, making them asymmetrical. This affects the boat's performance by reducing its speed and maneuverability. The boat becomes more difficult to control and is more likely to be damaged in the event of a collision.

Safety risks

In the event of severe delamination, the bladders may tear and project debris at high speed. This can cause serious injury to passengers, particularly to the eyes and head.

If the bladders deflate completely, the boat may capsize or sink. Passengers then run the risk of falling into the water and injuring themselves, especially in difficult weather conditions, with the risk of drowning. 

Prevent seam delamination for safe sailing

Seam delamination is a common problem on RIB boats, but it can be avoided with regular maintenance and responsible use.

Cleaning and storage

Clean bladders regularly with suitable products after each use to remove salt, dirt and residues that can weaken seams.

When not sailing, store your boat in a dry place away from the sun. UV rays can degrade PVC over time, accelerating seam wear.

Inflation and capacity

Avoid excessive pressure on the seams by controlling the inflation of your bladders.

Avoid overloading by respecting the maximum weight capacity allowed. 

Monitoring and prevention

Detect early signs of wear before they turn into more serious problems. Inspect seams regularly for cracks, delamination or signs of weakness. If you spot damage, carry out preventive repairs as soon as possible.

Finally, drive carefully and avoid excessive bumping and rubbing against docks, rocks or other boats. 

Repairing loose seams: guaranteeing smooth sailing

The extent of detachment determines the repair method.

For small tears, the use of a special marine PVC two-component adhesive is generally sufficient. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for correct application.

In the event of severe delamination, it is necessary to replace the damaged seam section. This type of repair requires special expertise. Call on a qualified professional who can guarantee a long-lasting job that complies with safety standards.

Our Orca Retail neoprene fabrics are an excellent option for seam repairs.

This material offers enhanced resistance to weathering, UV and abrasion, guaranteeing a durable, high-performance solution.

Moreover, Orca Retail neoprene fabrics come in a wide range of colors and textures, allowing you to find a solution to suit your boat's aesthetics.

ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT BOATING AND RIB BOATS? 

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• The best RIB boat accessories
• Preparing to winterize your RIB boat
• Preparing to launch your inflatable boat