Month: March 2022

Boat flares are pyrotechnic devices that can save lives. However, they are also products that must be handled with care. They can be dangerous to those who use them if they are out of date. They also need to be handled with care. To find out more about how flares work, follow these lines.

How a parachute flare works

There are currently 3 different types of boat flares that are approved:

• The parachute flare
• Smoke flare
• Hand-held lights

The parachute flare is quite easy to use. It is a projectile launcher that will be sent into the air. To signal distress, this type of boat distress light will emit its red light at height. Because of their performance, these lights can be launched up to 300 metres high. The light is fully capable of burning for 40 seconds.

It is also important to know that the parachute flare can be seen from about 25 miles away. You must handle this pyrotechnic product with care. To do this, start by stepping back while keeping your arm more flexed over the water. Try to find a stable position. You can use this device during the day and at night.

The smoke bomb

There is also the smoke bomb which is known for its orange-red smoke. This product is quite capable of burning for about 3 minutes. Unlike the other types of boat flares, smoke flares can only be used during the day. The smoke will not be visible at night.

To use it, it must be struck over the water and downwind. Originally, this pyrotechnic device was used to inform the air rescue services about the strength of the wind and the state of the sea.

Hand-held fires

Hand-held lights are also one of the most commonly used boat distress lights. If you want to go coastal sailing, you should have these products on your boat. The hand-held light has a red flame at the end of the flare. This product allows the user to be visible to emergency services that are already alerted and approaching your boat.

A hand-held flare is capable of emitting light for approximately 1 minute. It has a visibility of 3 to 5 nautical miles. When using it, you have to be careful with small splashes. For this reason you should wear gloves to avoid burns. You should also avoid looking at the flame for too long to avoid burning the retina.

Some precautions to take into account

These boat flares must be handled with care. To avoid burns, it is recommended that you always wear gloves before each use. Avoid pointing your flare at other people. When setting off your flare, avoid looking at the flame.

After using your flare, it is important to immerse it in water and then you can store it on board. Before storing your products in your boat, always try to check if they are not out of date. Pyrotechnic devices must respect the expiry dates.

Having a battery isolator is essential for safe sailing. It is the equipment that allows you to completely cut off the boat’s power supply in case of a problem. To ensure that this accessory can perform its role properly installed. Here is how to connect it correctly to the right place.

Things to consider before installing a circuit breaker

A circuit breaker is the accessory that gives you the privilege of switching on and off the electrical circuit on board. It is the equipment that avoids the risk of fire and electrocution.

Before starting the installation of your boat circuit breaker, it is of great importance to respect certain points. Depending on the model, there are two types of installation: flush-mounted and surface-mounted. The method of installation obviously depends on the type of your boat.

You should also be aware that a battery isolator must be fitted between the battery and the electrical panel. This is why it is of great importance to size the cable section and the lugs before any connection. For the proper functioning of your accessory, it is of great necessity to always choose good quality connection elements. Lugs and cables must comply with current standards. Finally, it is always wise to check the technical characteristics of the model.

The connection method for a boat circuit breaker

There is nothing complicated about connectinga boat battery switch . However, you must have a minimum of electrical knowledge. All you need is 2 cables and a 5A fuse. This equipment is then connected to the B- and B+ terminals of the alternator.

Some boats have alternators with separate regulators. In this case you can connect directly to the circuit breaker. For this procedure, the intervention of a specialist in the field is necessary. Also, during installation, the cables must be pulled carefully and securely so that no voltage is applied to the terminals.

According to DIN EN ISO 10133, this safety accessory must be connected to the + line of the boat’s electrical system.

The right place to install a fuse

In order fora battery isolator to perform its function correctly, it is of great importance to place it in the right place. It is important to know that this equipment should be placed as close as possible to the battery. Also, it is preferable to install it in a place within easy reach. This will ensure that it is easy to manipulate this accessory in case of a problem. Indeed, this safety equipment must be perfectly visible and accessible so that it can be activated at the right moment.

The way a boat fuse is connected can differ from one model to another. It is therefore advisable to always refer to the installation instructions. This will ensure that it is installed correctly.

You are planning to use a solar panel on your boat. You should know that this is a very efficient solution if you want to be autonomous in energy. As all professionals know, electrical energy is absolutely essential for a sailor’s equipment. In order to save energy, we recommend that you use a solar panel.

To meet your boat’s energy needs

This is the main advantage of a solar panel for boats. Indeed, this installation is fully capable of helping you to meet all the energy needs you will need on your boat. In fact, solar panels can be used as backup generators to run all the appliances on your boat. This provides an opportunity to save money on your main generator.

If you convert the solar energy into direct current and then into alternating current, you will have the chance to benefit from an efficient output for the operation of your boat. Also important because of the way it works, a photovoltaic solar panel is able to store the solar energy produced by the sun during the day. You can then use this energy later if there is no solar energy.

Other benefits

It is also important to know that the solar panels are able to keep the batteries charged while the boat is docked. Even if this period lasts a long time. This makes it the perfect solution during the winter. This solution will also prevent you from setting sail again with depleted batteries. The installation of a solar panel on a boat also offers you an opportunity to regulate your batteries.

Indeed, these installations are connected to a regulator that can detect low battery charges. If the batteries reach the set voltage threshold, the regulator switches on the charge. This gives you the opportunity to enjoy your appliances and batteries at any time. It is also important to note that solar panels are suitable for all types of boats:

• Large cruising catamarans
• Small sailing boats
• Speedboats
• Cabin cruisers
• Etc.

The different models of solar panels for boats

In order to enjoy the benefits of your boat solar panel, we recommend that you choose the model that best suits your needs. When purchasing, take into consideration the efficiency and technology of your panel. By choosing polycrystalline solar panels, you will have the chance to benefit from an efficiency of between 12 and 14%.

These are very common. In addition, they are available at affordable prices. You can also opt for monocrystalline solar panels. This model offers an efficiency of 13-15%. These panels are considered to be the most desirable. This is due to their efficiency. In addition, they offer a good price/quality ratio. There are also amorphous solar panels. These models offer a low efficiency of 6-7%.

Every boat has one or more anodes that must be changed regularly. This accessory protects metal parts such as the engine base, propeller, keel, daggerboard, hull, stern or spur gear against the harmful effects of corrosion. But how do you choose an anode?

What material should I choose for my anodes?

To choose the best anode, make sure that the material it is made of is suitable for the aquatic world. In addition, it must meet the mandatory purity standards. Indeed, the anode alloy must have a minimum purity of 99%. In addition, the iron content must not exceed 0.0014% to be more effective. If your boat’s hull is made of aluminium, magnesium (Hydral) anodes would be perfect.

What shape of anode should I choose?

There are many shapes of anodes to suit the metal parts of the boat to be protected. For a rudder, for example, a rose-shaped anode is usually chosen. For subbases and motors, washers, plates or carpets are often used.

Which anode model should be chosen for each environment?

You should choose anode materials according to the quality of the water you and your boat are sailing in. Regardless of the hull material of your boat (steel, aluminium or polyester), aluminium/zinc anodes are very effective. This option is perfect if you often sail in sea and brackish water.

If your vessel with a polyester or steel hull usually travels in clean fresh water, aluminium/magnesium anodes are the best choice. If your boat has an alloy hull, choose aluminium anodes. The same applies to movement in polluted fresh water.

Some tips for using anodes

Once you have chosen your anodes, there are a few things to remember.

• Never paint your anodes with antifouling,
• remember to maintain your anodes regularly. They should be brushed at anchor,
• Vessels with wooden hulls should not be fitted with magnesium anodes to avoid damage to the ribs.

Other information to remember

Anodes are designed to be damaged first to protect the metal parts of the boat. These accessories disintegrate over time. If your anode is not deteriorating, it is obviously not properly installed. However, if it degrades too quickly, a piece of equipment may be acting as an anode in its place or there may be some electrical leakage.

However, it is not easy to determine normal wear and tear, as it varies according to the type of boat and its environment. It is therefore a good idea to replace your anode at every refit if you notice any particular wear. You should know that an anode should be replaced if it has lost 75% of its mass. To ensure the repair or maintenance of your anodes, call on an expert.

According to the law, the use of an emergency beacon on a boat is mandatory during navigation. This is indeed the case for the EPIRD type. As this equipment ensures your safety, it is of great importance that it is of good quality. However, there are many different types of EPIRD, which makes it difficult to choose. In order to help you, here is how to choose your EPIRB.

Understanding how an EPIRB works

In order to choose an EPIRB beacon, it is essential to know how it works. You should know that it is a piece of equipment that emits an alert in the event of a shipwreck. Also known as a boat beacon, it is placed in a stand or container. It is specific to a boat, hence the presence of the boat’s MMSI number on its hull.

When in contact with water, this beacon automatically starts sending a signal to a COPAS-SARSAT satellite network. The signal is a 406 MHz wave. For an EPIRB equipped with GPS, it is easy to find the position quickly. If the beacon does not have a GPS function, many satellites must take care of positioning the location so that the signal can be sent to earth quickly. The beacon’s MMSI number makes it easy for rescue workers to start the rescue operation.

Criteria to take into account when choosing a beacon

As you will have understood, an EPIRB beacon is essential safety equipment during navigation. This is why it is important to ensure its good quality before choosing it. Here are the criteria to consider before buying your beacon.

Autonomy

To be sure of being rescued at the right time, it is important to take into account the beacon‘s autonomy. This is the time required for the beacon to send the signal. Choose a model with a long autonomy.

The activation principle

To be able to send an alert signal to the rescuers, an EPIRB has 2 types of release systems. Some models are automatically activated when a container is submerged. Others, however, are manual and require the intervention of on-board personnel. Both types perform well. The choice between these two types depends on the comfort of use you want.

The size of the beacon

The EPIRB is available on the market in many sizes. A compact size does not take up much space and looks good. If you are having trouble finding the right size beacon for your boat, it is strongly recommended that you seek the advice of an expert in the field.

The technology used

Some advanced models benefit from AIS technology which contributes to their performance. This innovation makes it easy for emergency services to help you in the event of an accident.

Battery life

To ensure the reliability of the beacon at all times, it is of great importance to replace the battery regularly. In order to save money, it is advisable to use batteries with a long service life.

Do you need to protect your boat’s hull from algae and shellfish? Then we advise you to use an antifouling. This is the best known and most effective solution. Many professionals believe that the choice of colour of your product also influences its effectiveness. What colour should you choose for your paint?

All about antifouling paint

For those who don’t know yet,antifouling is an underwater antifouling paint. It is used to reduce the growth of algae and shells on the hull of your boat. In order to achieve this, the paint is composed of toxins such as biocides which are based on copper oxide. It is these toxins that will fight the dirt.

Please note that the toxins or biocides that make up this antifouling paint have a shelf life. For your antifouling paint to remain effective, it must be renewed every year. This allows the product to keep the biocides active. This underwater paint is available in various types. When buying, you will have the chance to choose between hard and erodible matrices.

Choosing the colour of your antifouling

Antifouling paint comes in different models and colours. Many professionals believe that the choice of colour influences the effectiveness of the product. For this reason, some people stick to one colour. But how do you know which is the best colour for antifouling paint? There are a number of colours to choose from when purchasing paint.

Among the most popular colours are black, navy blue, royal blue, red, lagoon green, etc. These rather dark colours are considered to be the most effective. Indeed, they are colours that do not reflect light. As for light colours such as white or grey, they are rather difficult to focus on. Moreover, white is said to promote photosynthesis of algae.

The advantages of an antifouling

Using this type of product gives you an opportunity to protect your artwork from algae and shells. This will allow you to :

• Increase your sailing speed
• Reduce your fuel consumption
• Make it easier to sail upwind

Be aware that fuel consumption has a negative impact on the environment. Indeed, the performance of your engine can cause fumes.

This can affect the balance of the aquatic world. Using an antifouling also helps to protect your hull from corrosion. It is also important to know that fouling can reduce your sailing speed. This will result in a significant use of fuel and energy. This is not good for your budget or the marine environment. And if you still want to enjoy the joy of sailing, opt for the use of this antifouling paint.

A polyester boat is very easy to paint. It is a material that can be adapted to almost any type of paint available on the market. This may make your choice easier. But in order to enjoy the life and aesthetics of your boat paint, there are some criteria you should consider.

Single-component paints

Lacquer is a paint that is perfectly suited to all types of boats. When buying your boat paint, you will have the chance to choose between single and two-component paints. The former are very popular. These paints can be based on alkyd or acrylic resins. By choosing alkyd resins, you can enjoy good adhesion. Be aware that this type has a fairly average life span.

However, if you need to give your boat an extra shine, we recommend that you opt for acrylic-based single-component paints. Please note that single-component paints are physically drying. In addition, apart from the polyester support, this paint is also suitable for steel or aluminium supports. If you need a product that is very easy to apply, you should choose this type of boat paint.

Two-component paints

This is the ideal paint for a polyester boat. Of all the boat paints available on the market, it is considered the most abrasion resistant. Two-component paints offer a polymerisation drying process. They have attracted a large number of users due to their much harder finish. This is not the case with single-component paints.

Two-component paints are based on polyurethane. If you opt for this solution, you will have the chance to protect your boat’s hull from the weather. It is also important to note that this product forms a paint film on the substrate by evaporation of the solvents and by chemical reaction. This type of boat paint offers a high quality finish. In addition to the polyester substrate, two-component lacquers can also be applied to the following substrates

• Polyurethane
• Epoxy
• Fibreglass
• Gel coat

Polyester lacquer

As the name suggests, this polyester lacquer or polyester topcoat is a coating that is suitable for finishing polyester laminates. It is also the best solution to help you repair cracks and scratches in the gel coat. Using this product gives you an opportunity to add a light texture to the painted layer.

This boat paint is available in different colours. So you can choose the shade that suits your needs. It is also the best solution if you want to give your boat an aesthetic touch. In order to increase the effectiveness of this coating, there is nothing to stop you from applying an antifouling paint to your boat

A floating anchor is a tool to keep in mind if you are going to fish in the open sea. It can help you in many situations provided you have the right product. You should be careful not to rush into buying this type of anchor. You only need to take a few criteria into account to get the right model for you.

The weight of the

The weight of a floating anchor the weight of an anchor may depend on the size of the boat you intend to use. A small model can be easily carried away by the boat. For example, a 2 kg model is recommended for a kayak. In addition, a boat longer than 4 m may require an anchor weighing more than 3.5 kg. Note that a floating anchor is not suitable for large boats. You should not neglect this point to avoid disappointment on the open sea.

Fishing conditions

The fishing conditions should not be overlooked before buying a floating anchor. This type of accessory normally allows you to rest your legs or to replace the bait. In any case, the anchor must allow you to fish in complete peace of mind. In any case, the anchor must allow you to fish in complete peace of mind, and you must have an idea of the nature of the water bottom on which you intend to fish. So, don’t hesitate to ask your supplier for advice before making a decision. This will help you avoid making the wrong choice.

Anchoring

Mooring advice should also be taken into account when buying a floating anchor. Note that the chain should be three times the height of the water. It is important to have an accessory that is practical and efficient, but also easy to store. You may need to reverse the anchor to secure it to your vessel. It is quite possible to face into the wind to anchor. This is something to check when you buy the accessory for your boat.

The material of manufacture

Normally, a floating anchor should be strong and robust enough to last a long time. Note that deterioration of the product can cause you problems at sea. It is therefore advisable to check the material of the model you are offered before you buy. A good model meets a specific standard. The maintenance conditions can also help you to check the quality and life span of your floating anchor. You should take the time to find out what material the model you are interested in is made of.

The rope

The rope is the final criterion to check before buying a floating anchor. The market offers a choice between polyamide and polyester. The second option is the most popular because of the value for money that the material can offer. A floating anchor with a high tenacity polyester rope is a perfect choice. The product will guarantee perfect strength and resistance throughout its use.

As you know, a motorised boat cannot do without a tank and sometimes even a boat nurse to avoid unpleasant surprises linked to a fuel shortage. As an essential element, it also needs maintenance. Cleaning is the best way to achieve this.

How often?

You should not be mistaken, a tank or a boat nurse also needs cleaning. Not as frequently as the hull, deck or other parts of the boat, but this accessory really needs it.

So you should know that after two or three years of use, the time has come to change the oil. At least if you have bought a new boat. The fact is that if you have chosen a second-hand model, it would be prudent to prioritise the cleaning stage before turning the engine over.

How do you know when the tank needs cleaning?

Between two and three years apart, cleaning the boat nurse or tank is certainly sufficient. However, you may need to do it earlier than that, noting that the type of boat and frequency of use play a big part in this.

Knowing how to identify the warning signs will help you a lot. If you look at the fuel filter, for example, chances are you’ll find debris or water stuck to the bottom of the bowl. This is a sign that some of these disruptive elements have probably made their way into the tank.

Needless to say, once in the tank, these impurities will not fail to circulate towards the engine, which will then suffer the impacts. This will generally manifest itself through a drop in performance and noise imperfections in the carburettor (or injector) and the exhaust.

How to clean a boat tank?

It’s obvious that cleaning a boat tank or fuel tank prevents problems with the fuel system and reduces the risk of breakdown. So, draining is no longer an option when you discover impurities and especially water at the bottom of the filter bowl.

Starting with a complete draining of the fuel. This should be easy with a feeder or a removable tank since it can be turned over to empty it completely. For a fixed tank, a hoover should be used.

Once the fuel has been moved, it is time to drain. This is done through the inspection hatch, which must be cleaned before opening, as dirt tends to accumulate there. Only then can you unscrew it, taking the opportunity to remove the fuel supply hose.

Now that you have access to the inside of the tank, all you have to do is clean it. Here again, the use of a hoover is necessary.

But not only that, you will also need to go through the rubbing and drying stage using a specific tool. Namely, an absorbent, lint-free microfiber to ensure better absorption and to avoid leaving deposits in the bottom of the tank. Note that you will need several microfibres for this. After that, you just have to put the hatch and the hose back on and you’re done.

MC: boat nurse

URL: https: //www.nootica.fr/accastillage/motonautisme/circuit-carburant/nourrices-et-reservoirs.html

Foghorns, whistles, trumpets and horns are all compulsory equipment for boats. For safety reasons, the RIPAM requires that users use them wisely according to well-defined rules.

A regulatory obligation

Any self-respecting sailor knows that for all boats, the golden rule is not only to be seen, but also heard, thanks to the boat horn. This explains why all floating machines are equipped with a system for emitting sound signals.

It should be noted that this is a regulatory obligation as required by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (also known as ColReg 72 or ColReg).

In concrete terms, it is Article 34 on the sound signals to be emitted of the RIPAM that has established this rule at world level. And according to the findings, this regulation is mainly aimed at vessels of less than 12 metres in length.

A question of safety

As a reminder, sound signalling is also a way for boats to signal their presence and intentions. However, with the technological advances that allow satellite phones or GPS to enter the system, some are tempted to believe that the boat horn is no longer necessary. A mistake!

The fact is that for various reasons, these modern devices can fail from time to time. Either because of electrical failure, fog, poor visibility or bad weather. Problems that can lead to accidents or other unfortunate situations.

All this leads to the fact that sound equipment is immune to such problems, so to speak, as a last resort. It is the ultimate means of communication to ensure your safety when sailing and also in port.

Sound emission is mandatory in port

The use of a ship’s horn is particularly important in harbours as part of the safety regulations. And there is a reason for this. Such places are full of boats of all kinds and sound signals allow you to make your intentions clear.

So you have to use the first category of sound signals. That of manoeuvring and warning, requiring a specific signal for each movement. Namely:

• One short signal for “I am coming to starboard”;
• Two short signals for “I am coming to port”;
• Three short signals for “I’m going backwards”;
• Two long signals and one short signal for “I intend to overtake you on your starboard side”;
• Two long and two short signals for “I intend to overtake you on your port side”;
• One long and one short signal followed by another long and short signal for “Affirmative response from the overtaken vessel”;
• At least four short signals for “Doubts about the intentions of another vessel”;
• One long signal for “In a blind turn”.

Needless to say, each pilot must master his or her own sound languages, without forgetting the second category, which corresponds to sound signals used in reduced visibility.