Marine and Shipbuilding

The marine and shipbuilding industry is considered to be one of the largest strategic, open, oldest and most competitive markets in the world ^[1]. Over the centuries, ships, submarines, marine structures and other marine structural components have all faced increasing environmental challenges. This requires the use of appropriate materials that are more resistant to the negative impacts of the marine environment and do not require prolonged maintenance. On the basis of cost or performance, plastics can outperform conventional materials in many applications. Moreover, plastics make possible certain applications that are not possible with other materials. Today, the marine and shipbuilding industry has evolved from the use of traditional materials such as wood and metal to the adoption of innovative materials such as plastics. As technology continues to evolve, plastics will contribute to safer, more efficient and environmentally friendly navigation in the future.

At Alfa Chemistry, we are committed to providing a diverse range of cutting-edge plastic products for the marine and shipbuilding industry. Our wide range of products is designed to take your project to a new level. Whether you're looking for innovative solutions for hull structures, piping systems, interior components or safety equipment, Alfa Chemistry has you covered.

Why Use Plastics in the Marine and Shipbuilding Industry

Plastics enable vessels to meet design requirements and work at high speeds and reliably. The main reasons are as follows:

• Corrosion resistance: Plastics have excellent corrosion resistance, which is particularly important in the marine environment. Unlike metals, which are susceptible to rust and degradation in the presence of saltwater, plastics remain largely unaffected by the corrosive effects of seawater, making them ideal for marine applications.
• Lightweight: The weight of plastic is much lighter than that of traditional materials such as metals, which reduces the overall weight of the vessel and thus increases its maneuverability, while reducing fuel consumption, ensuring that it is easier to pass all necessary weight regulations and optimizing the operation of the vessel.
• Others: Plastics can also be molded into complex shapes and sizes with relative ease, giving vessel construction greater design flexibility. In addition, plastics are non-conductive materials, which can reduce electrical interference and hazards in marine electronic systems.

Plastic Applications for Marine and Shipbuilding

Plastics play an important role in the marine and shipbuilding industry with their excellent properties. The main applications are as follows:

• Piping systems
• Windows and portholes
• Buoys and navigational aids

• Interior components
• Decking and flooring
• Ballast systems

• Safety equipment (e.g. lifeboats, life rafts)
• Hull and structural components (e.g. marine engines)
• Electrical systems and components (e.g., onboard electronics)

Our Plastics for the Marine and Shipbuilding Industry

At Alfa Chemistry, we have a complete production line to mass produce the plastics you need. Our products not only meet the expectations of our customers, but also give the marine and shipbuilding industry new possibilities. Here are some common plastics used in the marine and shipbuilding industry. Please contact us immediately if you need them.

• PEEK

• PVC

• Nylon

Reference

1. Panchuk, M.; et al. Perspectives of plastic pipes use in shipbuilding and marine industry. NAŠE MORE: znanstveni časopis za more i pomorstvo. 2022, 69(1): 70-76.

Unsure which plastic is most suitable for your industry needs?

Our experienced technical experts can help you solve your plastic selection challenges.

CONTACT US