Why Aluminium?
It is no accident that in North America, Australia & New
Zealand over two thirds of the recreational market uses aluminium extensively for craft up to around 8
metres. Of course the commercial market has always had respect for the material, so much so that now even oil
rigs are using aluminium in their construction. In Europe we are now seeing the market in general catching up
and we find the fast Wave-Piercing Ferries to the continent and Ireland almost commonplace, all being made
from marine grade aluminium. We have just finished building the UK's longest aluminium Canal Narrow Boat all
of 57 foot (18m), thus showing our enthusiasm.
We use a marine grade aluminium plate either BS5083 or BS5251 for
all hull skins. External surface protection is NOT needed as a hard oxide film forms quickly
and becomes the hulls long term protection. Should the skin be scratched the protection reforms
automatically. While painting for decorative reasons is perfectly practical, it is unnecessary for
protection. If however environmental or aesthetic reasons make it desirable, we will happily advise you, as
there are some excellent paint schemes available on the market.
- A Thanet aluminium hull will normally be up
to 20% lighter than a comparable GRP hull, because aluminium has a greater strength to
weight ratio.
- All Thanet hulls are TIG/MIG welded, with
rivets (both solid and hollow) being used for added features as appropriate, the
result is always an immensely strong structure.
- An aluminium hull will withstand significant
abrasion compared to one made of GRP, in fact its resistance to major damage is high,
thus it is more likely to dent than to hole, Because the inherent ductility of aluminium
makes it an ideal material for boat construction.
- Aluminium is never affected by light and
cannot suffer GEL & Osmosis problems. aluminium is
Non-Combustible, NON-Magnetic and NON-Sparking - vital in fire and high risk
situations.
- Our flat bottom designs ensure maximum
stability, giving Thanet boats a higher safety factor and the ability to operate in
shallow waters often as little as 3 inches (75mm)
unloaded.
- Repair costs for aluminium hulls can be
expected to be significantly less than those using other materials. No longer does
welding have to be called upon, as there are excellent adhesives available for most short
to medium term repairs.
- Construction techniques are such that special
moulds used for GRP hulls are never needed, thus saving some costs and at the same time
allowing greater flexibility in our approach to design.
- Customisation of the internal layout of any
of our standard models is offered. We are always willing to consider special designs
which can be added to our existing range already umbering some 20
plus.
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Thanet boats have been specially designed to withstand heavy and
continual usage on boating lakes, commercial fisheries or for general work purposes. they have been proven in
use since 1949 and are operated by local councils, water and river authorities, estates and clubs throughout
the UK. their practicality, fitness for purpose, durability and freedom from costly maintenance has never
been disputed; we are proud of them as excellent example s of British Workmanship.
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