At SEA JAPAN, RFD Japan presented the RFD-TOYO 6MklV, an inflatable life-raft.
Life-rafts are usually stored in containers, and when a raft is thrown overboard in an emergency, a line is pulled automatically to fill the raft with a nonflammable gas from a built-in cartridge, inflating it immediately. In the MkIV Series, the plastic material of the raft has been made even more durable.
"The surface of these rafts has been coated, using synthetic rubber and a special anti-corrosion agent called Chlorofil. The rubber has been strengthened and improved by using materials that prolong its life."
When this raft is thrown into the sea, an automatic separator enables it to move away from the ship. There's also a tent-shaped sheet on the raft to keep out wind and waves, so the people on board can maintain their body temperature and stay safe.
"The raft is ultimately very safe. It lands reliably in the sea, inflates itself, and reaches this state in about 10 seconds. So we think this can be a lifeline for a ship's crew."
The raft contains over 20 kinds of provisions, including water, food, medical supplies, flares, fishing gear, and knives.
"I don't think these rafts are expensive at all, when you consider the value of human life. A raft for six people can be purchased for less than 1,000,000 yen. We'd like to keep on developing and improving these rafts, with safety foremost in mind."
Related Links :
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RFD Japan Limited-
SEA JAPAN 2010
