Hypalon or PVC? Choosing the tube material of a RIB
The tube is the most important part of a RIB: it gives buoyancy and stability and protects the hull when mooring. It is made of one of two materials — PVC or Hypalon. Here is how they differ and which one to choose.
What PVC and Hypalon are
Both are polyester fabric with an airtight coating. The coating is what makes the difference:
- PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a thermoplastic. GRAND boats use 5-layer HEYTEX PVC from Germany — a reinforcing fabric coated on both sides with airtight layers resistant to abrasion and UV.
- Hypalon is a synthetic rubber (elastomer), usually combined with neoprene on the inside. GRAND RIBs use ORCA Hypalon from France.
Comparison in practice
| Feature | PVC | Hypalon |
|---|---|---|
| Resistance to high temperature | good in a temperate climate | very high |
| Resistance to UV and chemicals | good (thanks to additives) | very high |
| Service life with good care | about 10 years | longer |
| Weight | lighter | heavier |
| Price of the RIB | lower | usually 40–60% higher |
Temperature — the main difference
In the tropics the tube surface heats up to 80–90°C, and there Hypalon has a clear advantage. In a temperate climate such as Poland’s, the difference practically disappears.
Durability
PVC is more sensitive to UV than Hypalon, but modern stabilising additives have largely solved this — ten years of use from a PVC tube is a realistic result. Hypalon copes better with many seasons in the sun, contact with fuel and oils, and abrasion.
Price
Hypalon as a material costs several times more than PVC, and a RIB with a Hypalon tube usually costs 40–60% more than the same model in PVC. The cheapest GRAND RIB with a PVC tube costs 12 400 zł.
Which material to choose?
- PVC — if you boat in Poland or countries with a similar climate and want a lower price and less weight (for example a yacht tender).
- Hypalon — if the boat spends whole seasons on the water and in the sun, you boat in warm countries, use it professionally or want the most durable option.
Silver Line RIBs can be ordered with either tube material, and the 3D configurator shows the price difference straight away.
How to look after the tube
- After boating in salt water, rinse the tube with fresh water.
- Keep the boat covered when moored — the cover protects against UV and dirt.
- Before the season, check the pressure and the valves; inflate the chambers from stern to bow.
- Do not leave a hard-inflated tube in full sun — the pressure rises with temperature.
Frequently asked questions
Is Hypalon better than PVC?
It is more durable and more resistant to heat, but also heavier and more expensive. In the Polish climate good PVC is entirely sufficient.
How long does a PVC tube last?
About 10 years with good care.
Can a tube be repaired?
Yes, small damage is repaired with patches of the same material. Leave bigger repairs to a service centre.
