Elvaloy fabrics for inflatable boats

How XR-Mariner™ Elvaloy does compares with other coated fabrics?
Seaman Corporation is also a major producer of PVC and PU coated fabrics; their extensive research has concluded the
following:

PVC fabrics:

They contain liquid plasticizers that will migrate and evaporate, rendering the fabric brittle and

discoloured. PVC fabrics are not suitable for manufacturing high quality inflatable boats.

The 1st picture shows a red boat manufactured in 1997. It has been exposed all year long to the Florida sun for a

period of 10 years. The red seam tape was made of PVC (color matching the tube) and has faded out. The tube is

made of Seaman Elvaloy and still shows a perfectly new appearance.

The 2nd picture shows a yellow boat manufactured in 1998. It has been exposed all year long to the Florida sun for

10 years. The inside floor was made of PVC (color matching the tube); the color has significantly deteriorated

(brownish yellow). The tube is made of Seaman Elvaloy and still shows a perfectly new appearance.

PU fabrics:

They have excellent mechanical properties; however, their lack of suppleness is a major handicap

especially for foldable boats and renders them more difficult to process. PU fabrics are expensive but they are well

adapted for demanding applications requiring very high abrasion resistance.

Hypalon fabrics:

XR-Mariner compares very favourably to Hypalon fabrics as it has been specifically developed to

surpass their performance characteristics.

Report comparing the 38 oz. XR-Mariner with a leading 1300 gr Hypalon:

This picture shows the better abrasion resistance of the Elvaloy, in grey, compared to the Hypalon, in green (quickly

abraded to the weave).

This picture shows the typical degradation of PVC fabric over time (discoloration along with loss of suppleness and

mechanical properties)

What is the cost of XR-Mariner?
At the present time (2008) the official pricing for the XR-Mariner is approximately US$ 30/ linear meter (145 cm width). Of
course, we will be able to give you firm pricing when we receive your quantities and delivery schedule.
Our prices include the freight to your Port of Entry but exclude customs clearance, taxes and duties. For your information,
the harmonized tariff code is: 3921-90

Do you offer special conditions for samples and trial orders?
Samples: Each account can receive 5 free meters, shipped by ground / ocean.
Trial orders: Each account can receive 1 trial, PAID order of 50 meters minimum, we'll split freight cost.

Do you give payment terms?
Yes, we offer up to 60-day terms on approved accounts.
We also accept payments by credit cards.

Is there a minimum order?
Our minimum is 300 meters per delivery (for deliveries under 300 m, the client will have to pay the transport from the USA).

What colours are available?
We offer WHITE and LIGHT GREY in 1300 gr/m2 as standard products.
However, you can order any color given minimum quantity requirements and several months notice. Also, please note that
any PVC fabric will bond to Elvaloy® allowing the manufacturer to use such fabrics for graphics, designs, accessories etc.
Seaman supplies PVC compatible fabrics in various colours for this purpose.

Does Seaman offer any lighter or heavier Elvaloy fabrics?
At the present time, XR-Mariner™ is offered exclusively in 1300 gr/m2. We are working on a lighter fabric and will inform
you when it will be available, probably in late 2008.
We do not have any immediate plans to launch a heavier version given that the performances of our standard version
surpass most of the specifications of heavy weights (1500+gr) fabrics made of PVC or Hypalon. Of course, we will consider
all requests for special developments given minimum quantities.
Finally, it is important to note that Seaman is a renowned producer of PU coated fabrics.
Seaman’s PU fabrics can be considered for professional and military applications.

Can XR-Mariner™ be welded?
The XR-Mariner can be easily welded with both high frequency and hot air welders.
As it doesn’t contain any liquid plasticizers, the weld is a perfect melt with no emanation of fumes.
Do not hesitate to contact us if you need assistance in equipping your production facility with welding equipment.

Is it possible to use cold gluing in production?
Yes, cold gluing is a perfectly acceptable process for Elvaloy® fabrics as long as an Elvaloy® based adhesive is used. The
procedure is simple and no mechanical pre-sanding is required. The adhesion levels are very high and last over time.
XR-Mariner™ can be glued onto itself, most PVC and PU fabrics and accessories (handles, rubstrake etc.), aluminum and
fibreglass. Adhesion levels with rubbers are lower but could be acceptable in some cases.
We recommend and can supply you with the Clifton UR 5208 Elvaloy adhesive. This proven adhesive has a 1-year shelf life
and costs approximately US$ 10 /litre.
Note: We strongly suggest that you test all your processes over a 3-month period before introducing them into your
manufacturing operations.