Top Ship Salvage Airbags for Safe and Efficient Vessel Recovery

When a vessel sinks or runs aground, quick and safe recovery is the top priority. Traditional lifting equipment such as cranes or pontoons is expensive, slow to deploy, and sometimes impossible to use in remote areas.
That’s why more and more salvage companies and ship owners choose ship salvage airbags — a simple, flexible, and highly effective lifting solution. These airbags make vessel recovery faster, safer, and far more cost-efficient.

Why Choose Ship Salvage Airbags?

Ship salvage airbags provide a strong lifting force by displacing water when inflated. Unlike heavy lifting cranes or pontoons, they are lightweight, easy to transport, and can be used in both shallow and deep waters.

They are perfect for:

• Refloating sunken vessels
• Lifting ship sections or damaged hulls
• Supporting underwater repair work

With the right number and layout, ship salvage airbags can raise vessels of thousands of tons safely and steadily. This flexibility makes them a must-have tool for any marine salvage operation.

How Ship Salvage Airbags Work

The working principle is simple: when filled with compressed air, the airbags push against the surrounding water, creating upward buoyancy.
Each airbag has multiple layers of high-strength synthetic rubber and fabric to ensure durability and pressure resistance. Valves and connectors allow divers or surface crews to control the air flow and adjust buoyancy during the lift.

Key parameters to consider:

• Diameter and length – determine total lifting capacity
• Buoyancy rating – the maximum load the airbag can safely lift
• Material layers – more layers mean better safety and longer life
• Working pressure – defines the operating limit under water

With proper calculation and setup, these airbags can bring a vessel back to the surface smoothly without twisting or damaging the hull.

Common Types of Ship Salvage Airbags

There are several designs available, each suited for different operations:

Each type offers unique advantages. Many operators prefer a mix — large enclosed airbags for main lifting, and smaller pillow-type units for balancing and stability.

How to Select the Right Ship Salvage Airbags

Choosing the right airbags is key to a safe and successful recovery. Follow these steps:

1. Estimate total weight and balance – The total buoyancy should be 1.2–1.5 times the vessel’s underwater weight.
2. Assess the environment – Water depth, current speed, and seabed condition all affect airbag choice.
3. Pick the right size and material – For larger ships or deep operations, use thicker, multi-layer airbags.
4. Plan layout and connection – Spread airbags evenly under the hull to avoid tilting.
5. Check accessories – Reliable valves, pressure gauges, and safety ropes are essential.

If unsure, consult the manufacturer or supplier. Many, like NANHAI, provide free buoyancy calculations and design support for complex projects.

Deployment and Operation Guidelines

Before lifting, always perform a full site inspection and safety check. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

1. Survey the wreck – Divers inspect the hull and plan where to place each airbag.
2. Position and secure – Attach airbags evenly under or alongside the hull using strong ropes or straps.
3. Inflate gradually – Add air in stages, keeping pressure within safe limits. Monitor movement and adjust as needed.
4. Stabilize the lift – Balance buoyancy to prevent the vessel from rolling or turning.
5. Tow to shallow water – Once the ship floats, it can be safely moved for repair or inspection.

Safety is critical. Always use pressure relief valves, and never overinflate. With trained divers and careful control, salvage airbags make vessel recovery smooth and reliable.

Safety and Environmental Considerations

Modern ship salvage airbags are designed for safe operation in demanding marine environments. Still, following proper procedures is essential:

• Use certified products that meet ISO or CCS standards.
• Train your crew in underwater communication and emergency procedures.
• Inspect airbags before and after each use for cuts or wear.
• Protect the environment by avoiding sudden releases that may disturb the seabed or spill oil.

A well-planned salvage not only saves assets but also helps prevent pollution and secondary damage.

Maintenance and Storage Tips

After every operation, clean the airbags with fresh water to remove salt and sand. Let them dry completely before folding and storing in a cool, dry place.
Regularly check for air leaks or weak spots. Proper care extends the life of your equipment and ensures readiness for the next mission.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How much weight can a ship salvage airbag lift?
That depends on its size and working pressure. For example, a 1.5 m × 15 m airbag can provide around 60 tons of buoyancy.

Q2: Can I use airbags if the hull is badly damaged?
Yes, but divers should secure them carefully to stable parts of the structure to avoid further damage.

Q3: Are ship salvage airbags reusable?
Absolutely. With proper maintenance, a high-quality airbag can be reused for many years.

Q4: How many airbags do I need?
It depends on your vessel’s displacement. Most salvage teams calculate total buoyancy, then divide it among several airbags for balance and safety.

Q5: What certificates should I look for?
Check for ISO, CCS, or third-party testing reports to ensure material quality and pressure safety.

Conclusion

Ship salvage airbags are transforming the way marine recovery is done — faster setup, lower cost, and better safety.
For ship owners and salvage professionals, they are the most practical and flexible tool to bring a vessel back to life.

If you’re planning a recovery project, NANHAI can provide custom-designed ship salvage airbags, technical support, and full after-sales service.
Contact us today to get a free buoyancy calculation and quotation — your next successful salvage starts here.