Whether it is a leisurely Sunday afternoon fishing trip to the river, an excursion around the world by sea, or shipping containers full of vital materials from one country to the next, aluminum has shown to be a first-choice option for construction of vessels used in the boating and marine industry. No matter the activity, may it be for recreational or professional use, safety is always made priority and aluminum is trusted by captains across the industry.
Its lightweight compound, durability, resistance to stress, and rigidity lead to better performance, low cost of ownership and most importantly higher security. Aluminum’s superior strength to weight ratio allows for building stronger and stiffer boats while keeping them light for performance. When compared to steel, it has been proven that aluminum hull boasts about 29 percent dent resistance and 12.5 percent greater resistance to puncture due to the ductile nature of the aluminum. That means that in the case of sudden impact, aluminum based boats will not rupture, making it a safer option than other materials. In addition, aluminum does not burn nor does it support combustion. Fire resistance is the second element of safety at sea after resistance to puncture.
When it comes to water sports, the need for speed is critical and aluminum’s light weight composition allows boats to reach speeds unobtainable before. For example, one of the most famous infamous global circumnavigation boat races is the Volvo Ocean Race, which takes place every four years. The race usually takes over nine months and covers 39,000 nautical miles. It takes place over 11 legs and incorporates stops at 12 ports around the world. Weather permitting, the race usually begins in Europe in September and runs through the Atlantic Ocean, corners around Africa’s southerly point, and then braves the often treacherous waters of the Southern Ocean before cornering again at Cape Horn at the southern tip of South America and heading home up the Atlantic.
Shanghai Metal Corporation understands the importance of safety in the boating and marine industry and is committed to offering products that abide by quality standards and are sustainable for the environment as well. Learn more about the products we offer and services we provide at our website here. Be sure to join the conversation in our LinkedIn group, Twitter, and Facebook.
Kristie K. // SMC Editor
Shanghai Metal Corporation 