Marine Launching and Hauling Airbags — Safe, Efficient Solutions for Ship Launching and Docking

As global shipbuilding continues to evolve, traditional launching methods such as dry dock or side-launching are often replaced by more flexible, cost-effective solutions. One of the most innovative and widely adopted technologies in recent decades is the use of Marine Launching and Hauling Airbags—a system that combines safety, efficiency, and adaptability for ship launching, hauling, and docking operations. At Shengda Marine Equipment, we manufacture and supply premium-grade marine airbags trusted by shipyards and marine engineers across the Asia-Pacific and beyond.

What Are Marine Airbags?

Marine airbags are heavy-duty pneumatic rubber bags designed to assist in moving vessels on and off the shore. They are placed underneath a ship’s hull and then inflated, using air pressure to lift and roll the ship forward into the water or backward onto land. This method is commonly used for new ship launches, vessel repairs, maintenance docking, and vessel shifting within shipyards.

Why Choose Shengda Marine Airbags?

At Shengda, our marine airbags are engineered with multi-layer synthetic-tire-cord rubber construction, providing exceptional strength, elasticity, and pressure resistance. Each airbag is built to withstand heavy loads, repeated compression, and extreme working environments.

Key features of our airbags include:

• High Load Capacity: Suitable for ships from 100 tons to over 10,000 tons
• Flexible & Portable: Easily deployed without the need for fixed launch facilities
• Durable Construction: Multi-layer rubber and cord structure, resistant to abrasion and aging
• Reliable Sealing: Leak-proof valves and end fittings ensure safety during operation
• Customizable Sizes: Diameters from 0.8m to 2.5m, lengths up to 24m or more
• Wide Applications: Ship launching, docking, platform lifting, bridge support, caisson movement

Our airbags undergo strict pressure testing, durability assessments, and surface inspections before delivery. We also provide full user guidance, from site preparation to rolling arrangement and inflation procedure.

Advantages Over Traditional Launching Methods

Compared with dry docks or steel slideways, marine airbags offer several benefits:

• Cost Efficiency: No need for large fixed infrastructure
• Mobility: Suitable for remote shipyards or temporary construction sites
• Speed: Faster deployment and recovery
• Versatility: Compatible with a variety of vessel types—fishing boats, ferries, cargo ships, barges, and more
• Safety: Controlled descent and uniform pressure distribution protect the hull

Many shipyards and maritime contractors have transitioned to airbag-based methods for both new builds and repair projects because of these advantages.

Global Standards & Shengda Support

All Shengda airbags are manufactured in compliance with ISO 14409 and GB/T 33487-2017 standards. We offer class-approved options and provide on-site technical guidance for first-time users or complex projects.

From inquiry to installation, Shengda delivers full-cycle support:

• Product design and size selection
• Layout and positioning guidance
• Inflation equipment and pressure monitoring
• After-sales consultation and spare parts

Whether you’re launching a 500-ton fishing vessel or hauling a 10,000-ton barge for repair, Shengda’s Marine Launching and Hauling Airbags are the reliable, proven solution trusted by professionals around the world.