The latest data on the global shipbuilding market show a value of more than $150 billion, with projections indicating an increase to nearly $200 billion by 2030. With the aim of boosting Italy’s production capacity development and confirming its role in the sector, particularly for superyachts (51.4%of orders worldwide), it is crucial to focus on innovation. And it is not only a matter of optimizing engineering, but also paying due attention to materials, for superior production results.
From this perspective, the shipbuilding industry has always based the construction of vessels and maritime infrastructure on materials such as steel, aluminum, and wood. However, in recent years, the need to improve operational efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and increase sustainability has led to the adoption of alternative materials, including extruded thermoplastic polymers.
In particular, polyethylene (PE), among thermoplastics, is proving to be an ideal solution for multiple maritime applications due to its outstanding chemical, mechanical and environmental resistance properties. BG Plast’s PE sheet extrusion lines are designed to ensure that this material delivers high quality results, thickness uniformity and production process optimization, thus meeting the needs of an increasingly innovation-driven industry.
Custom PE sheet production: the range of calender widths is from 450 mm to 8000 mm
Why choose thermoplastics in the naval industry: the advantages of extruded PE
Corrosion resistance and durability in the marine environment
One of the main advantages of polyethylene in the maritime sector is its resistance to corrosion and salt spray. While materials such as steel and aluminum require anti-corrosion treatments, special coatings and periodic maintenance, PE is naturally immune to rust and the damaging effects of salt water. It is therefore ideal for applications exposed to extreme environmental conditions, such as protective coatings, tanks and structural components.
Weight reduction and increased operational efficiency: the role of extruded PE
The weight of a boat directly affects fuel consumption and overall performance. PE sheets offer significant weight reduction compared to metallic materials, contributing to:
- Improving the energy efficiency of vessel fuel use.
- Increase payload without compromising stability
- Facilitate transportation and installation of structural components and accessories.
Chemical resistance and easy maintenance
Unlike metals, polyethylene is highly resistant to aggressive chemicals, such as oils, fuels, and industrial cleaners. This feature reduces the need for maintenance work and ensures greater longevity of components, resulting in significant savings in operating costs.
Ease of processing and design flexibility
PE sheets can be easily cut, shaped, welded, and thermoformed for greater design flexibility than traditional materials. The versatility allows custom components to be made for each specific application, optimizing production time and costs.alizzare componenti personalizzati per ogni specifica applicazione, ottimizzando i tempi e i costi di produzione.
Applications for extruded polyethylene include ship coverings
Applications of extruded PE in shipbuilding
Due to their unique properties, polyethylene sheets are used in numerous maritime applications, including:
1. Flooring and coatings for vessels and port infrastructure
PE sheets are used to create slip-resistant and impact-resistant surfaces that are ideal for boat decks, gangways, and docks. Their high mechanical strength and lack of maintenance requirements make them an advantageous alternative to traditional materials.
2. Floating systems and modular pontoons
PE is a key material in the production of buoys, floating structures and modular pontoons because of its light weight and resistance to salt water. In addition, its ability to withstand weathering makes it perfect for permanent installations in marine environments.
3. Polyethylene for hull protections and containment structures
Polyethylene sheets are used to make protective coatings for hulls and retaining walls to prevent damage from impact and abrasion. Their high elasticity allows them to absorb impact without permanent deformation.
4. Tanks and liquid containment systems
Due to their chemical resistance and impermeability, PE sheets are used for the construction of tanks for fuels, wastewater and chemicals, ensuring safety and durability.
BG Plast extrusion lines for PE sheet: precision and performance for the shipbuilding industry
BG Plast specializes in the production of extrusion lines for PE sheets, providing high-performance machinery with unique features.
Technical characteristics of BG Plast extrusion lines
- Range of thicknesses from 1 mm to 40 mm, to meet different application needs
- Sheet widths up to 4600 mm, ideal for reducing joints and improving structural strength
- Precision calenders with electromechanical control to ensure uniform thickness
- Advanced temperature management, with separate temperature control for each cylinder
- Independent motorization for each cylinder, for high energy efficiency and reduced consumption by up to 30 percent.
Advantages of BG Plast thermoplastic extrusion lines for the marine industry
- Customized production according to specific customer requirements
- High material quality and uniformity, essential for maritime applications
- Continuous after-sales support and service to ensure maximum production efficiency
- Possibility of using recycled materials, contributing to the sustainability of the marine industry.
Precision electromechanical control over the opening and closing of cylinders ensures thicknesses from 0.1 to 40 mm, depending on the material
The tomorrow of shipbuilding is in thermoplastic materials
The use of extruded PE sheets is redefining the standards of the shipbuilding and maritime industry, confirming it as an innovative, durable and sustainable solution. Our extrusion lines ensure quality, precision and reliability, assisting in the transformation of an ever-evolving industry.
If your company is looking for solutions for the production of advanced materials for marine applications, BG Plast is the ideal partner to take your production to the next level.
Contact us today to find out how we can support your project.