What are the different types of ship launching?

Ship launching is a critical phase in shipbuilding, marking the moment when a newly constructed vessel transitions from land into water. This process may look thrilling and seamless, but it requires careful planning, precision engineering, and the right technique. From traditional methods like end launching to modern solutions like marine airbag ship launching, each technique serves specific vessel types and launching environments.

Why Is This Topic Necessary and Urgent?

With the rising demand for efficient, safe, and cost-effective shipbuilding across the globe, choosing the right ship launching method has never been more urgent. Mistakes during launch can lead to severe damage or even total loss of the vessel, not to mention the risk to workers and the environment.

For example, if a shipyard builds a large cargo vessel but uses outdated launching methods without proper airbags ship launching calculation, they risk structural damage. At NANHAI, we’ve seen shipyards shift to marine airbag technology not only for its flexibility but also to avoid expensive infrastructure modifications. This topic is crucial for shipbuilders, marine engineers, and procurement teams looking to optimize costs and improve safety.

1. Airbag Ship Launching (Marine Airbags)

Marine airbag launching uses inflatable rubber airbags placed under the hull to roll the vessel gently into the water.

This innovative and cost-effective method is widely adopted by small—to medium-sized shipyards, especially in regions where building permanent slipways is not feasible. With the right marine airbag calculation, it offers high safety and flexibility, even in challenging terrain.

Advantages:

• No need for dry docks or heavy infrastructure
• Reusable and portable
• Reduces stress on the hull
• Ideal for ship repairs and salvage operations

Nanhai Company provides three types of ship launching airbags

Ship Launching Airbags(S, P): The airbags provided by Nanhai Company far exceed the ISO 14409: 2011 industry standard, with diameter sizes ranging from 300mm to 4000mm, lengths from 3000mm to 33000mm, and non-standard size manufacturing services are also provided.

S Ship Launching Airbags: Adopt 3-strand synthetic tire cord

P Ship Launching Airbags: Adopt 2-strand synthetic tire cord

ship launching airbags(ES): Nanhai ES marine airbag has made technical innovations in the metal structures at both ends of the airbag. The metal integrated structures at both ends can realize inflation, pressure measurement, and airbag towing, which comprehensively improve the airbag operation efficiency.

Nanhai ship launching airbag adopts the world’s leading and professional high-tech raw materials and a unique production process, with long-term reliable performance, and has been used in various extreme environments.

Beenest Airbags: The Beenest marine airbag is a unique, patented product that Nanhai Company independently developed. It combines all the advantages of Nanhai’s traditional ship launching airbags with a layer of high-strength, puncture-proof composite material. This added layer effectively prevents accidental scratches and punctures from sharp objects, making the product ideal for extremely harsh working environments and greatly extending its service life.

Even with the high-strength composite materials, the Beenest airbag retains excellent flexibility, making on-site operations easy and efficient.

Nanhai proudly stands as China’s exclusive and top manufacturer of Beenest airbags. The company pioneered the upgrade from traditional ship launching airbags to Beenest airbags. Nanhai uses world-class high-tech raw materials and a unique production process to ensure the highest quality in every product.

2. End Launching (Longitudinal Launching)

End launching is when the ship slides into the water stern-first or bow-first, using a slipway.

This is the most traditional method and is commonly used in shipyards located along rivers or narrow channels. Gravity and lubrication (like grease or wax) help the ship glide smoothly. However, this method requires precise calculations and sturdy infrastructure to avoid hull stress.

3. Side Launching

Side launching involves launching the ship sideways into the water, usually from a platform or cradle.

This method is particularly used where the water body is too narrow for end launching. However, the impact of the launch is more forceful, requiring strong structural reinforcement and highly skilled execution to ensure the vessel remains intact.

4. Floating-Out (From Dry Dock)

Floating out is the process where the ship is built in a dry dock, and then water is gradually introduced to float the vessel.

This method is typically used for large vessels such as cruise ships or military ships. It’s a controlled and safe process, though it requires significant infrastructure investment.

5. Mechanical Launching

Mechanical launching uses cranes or mechanical systems to lift smaller vessels into the water.

This method is common in yacht yards, boat clubs, and for naval auxiliary crafts. It’s simple and effective, but limited by the vessel’s size and weight.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

What is the safest method of ship launching?
The floating-out method is considered the safest for large vessels, while marine airbags are safest for small to mid-sized ships due to their soft, controlled rollout.

How do marine airbags work in ship launching?
Marine airbags are placed under the hull and inflated to lift the ship. Once aligned, they roll the ship toward the water in a controlled motion, minimizing stress and shock.

What calculations are required for ship launching with airbags?
Calculations include hull weight, airbag spacing, diameter, and rolling path slope. Proper airbag ship launching calculation ensures safety and efficiency.

Is ship launching airbags environmentally friendly?
Yes, because it requires no heavy infrastructure and minimizes shoreline disturbance, making it a greener alternative.

Can large vessels be launched using airbags?
While traditionally used for smaller ships, technological improvements have enabled airbag launches for vessels up to 100000 tons with proper engineering.

Ready to Launch Smarter?

Choosing the right ship launching method isn’t just a technical decision—it’s a strategic one. Whether you’re building fishing boats, ferries, or cargo vessels, switching to marine airbag launching can reduce costs, speed up timelines, and protect your investment.

Looking for the right airbag system or help with your launching calculation? Contact NANHAI today for expert advice and tailored solutions.