Recently, a batch of customized high-performance marine airbags manufactured by Qingdao Shunkai Marine Supplies Co., Ltd. successfully assisted in the launching of a 12,000-ton cargo vessel at a shipbuilding and repair base in Weihai, Shandong Province.
Thanks to their exceptional load-bearing stability and impact resistance, the airbags operated with zero failures throughout the entire launching process, reducing the vessel launching time to just one-fifth of traditional methods. The outstanding performance earned high recognition from the partner shipyard and once again demonstrated the strong technical capabilities of China’s marine equipment manufacturers.
Ship launching is one of the most critical stages in shipbuilding. Its safety and efficiency directly affect project schedules and overall construction costs. With years of expertise in the marine airbag industry, SunKai deeply understands the diverse launching requirements of vessels of different types and tonnages.
For this 12,000-ton cargo ship, SunKai’s engineering team conducted targeted R&D based on key parameters such as hull structure and draft, breaking away from traditional standardized production and achieving fully customized airbag solutions tailored to the project.
To ensure optimal performance, SunKai’s engineers utilized finite element analysis (FEA) to simulate stress distribution throughout the entire launching process. An innovative structure combining multi-layer reinforced cord fabric with strengthened end sections was adopted.
Connection strength between the airbag body and end plates increased by 30%
Enhanced resistance to instantaneous impact forces during vessel sliding
Significantly improved overall safety margin
In terms of materials, the airbags are manufactured using high-wear-resistant, anti-aging imported natural rubber and high-strength polyester cord fabric, processed through multiple advanced techniques including high-temperature vulcanization and high-pressure bonding.
As a result, the airbags maintain stable performance in extreme temperatures ranging from -20°C to 60°C, with a pressure rating of up to 0.8 MPa, exceeding the industry standard of 0.6 MPa.
To guarantee a successful operation, SunKai deployed a dedicated technical service team to provide full on-site support—from layout planning and airbag positioning to inflation pressure adjustment and vessel trajectory monitoring.
During the operation:
12 customized airbags were evenly arranged at preset intervals
A synchronized inflation system gradually lifted the vessel
With towing assistance, the ship smoothly entered the water
The entire launching process took only 1.5 hours, saving nearly 7 days compared to traditional slipway launching, significantly reducing both time and labor costs for the shipyard.
“Customized high-performance marine airbags are transforming traditional ship launching methods,” said SunKai’s Technical Director. “We remain market-oriented, driven by technological innovation, and continuously optimize both product performance and service systems.”
SunKai now offers an integrated solution covering design, manufacturing, and on-site technical support, with a complete product range including:
Diameters: 0.8 m – 2.0 m
Lengths: 5 m – 20 m
Suitable for vessels from 1,000 tons to 50,000 tons
With reliable product quality and professional technical service, SunKai marine airbags are widely used in shipyards across China’s coastal and inland river regions, and have been exported to South Korea, Singapore, Egypt, and other countries and regions.
SunKai will continue increasing R&D investment, focusing on ultra-large vessels and specialized ships, tackling advanced technical challenges, and delivering safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly launching solutions to support the high-quality development of the global shipbuilding industry.
