How to tell PVC vs Hypalon fabric?

babbot1 · 29 February 2016, 15:16

Okay, So I searched the web and can't seem to get a clear direction on how to tell if I have Hypalon or PVC material. I am pretty sure its Hypalon but I gotta say it looks just like my PVC dinghy. I need to purchase glue to fix some seams.

Its a 2003 AB 13' VST and its hard to find any documentation on AB stuff.
I always thought Hypalon was very smooth and PVC has a grain to it. But this boat seems to also have a grain. Maybe the outer layer is worn out but it sure looks the same.

jeffstevens763@g · 29 February 2016, 15:47

Hi bud

I looked on a uk site Ron hale marine & AB boats are an orca fabric not sure if that's PVC or not but the web will flash that up if they are the same boats sorry carnt be more help

Just had a look orca is hypalon if that's the boat

Cheers

babbot1 · 29 February 2016, 18:06

I did see that and also the new models are hypalon according to the AB site. I was just wondering if maybe the older ones like mine could be PVC or not. Maybe they had a cheaper version or something...

I guess if the hylapon glue doesn't stick then I should use PVC glue. :-)

Also, should I use MEK or Acetone to clean and prep for glue? I was going to use MEK thinking its hypalon.

jeffstevens763@g · 29 February 2016, 18:28

Mek or tolulean for cleaning if I were you I would buy two patches one PVC one hypalon and compare there's a difference to the nail between both if that makes sense

Cheers

Poly marine.com tells how to tell the difference between the two plus all you need to know how to repair too you should get sorted from their site good look Jeff

babbot1 · 29 February 2016, 18:58

Thanks, that's a great idea picking up a patch kit. I should have one handy anyways for the hypalon. I already have a PVC sample from my dinghy.
I think I understand what you mean my the nail test.

jeffstevens763@g · 29 February 2016, 20:12

Quote:

Originally Posted by babbot1

Thanks, that's a great idea picking up a patch kit. I should have one handy anyways for the hypalon. I already have a PVC sample from my dinghy.
I think I understand what you mean my the nail test.

On the poly marine site it explains the difference when you abraid the material how they are different also if you take a valve out the colour of hypalon is grey in side no matter what colour out side PVC is the same in & out.

Cheers

Pikey Dave · 01 March 2016, 05:54

A friend of mine bought an AB ally hulled rib as a tender for his yacht. We looked at them at the boat show & they categorically stated that they only use Hypalon.

jeffstevens763@g · 01 March 2016, 06:10

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pikey Dave

A friend of mine bought an AB ally hulled rib as a tender for his yacht. We looked at them at the boat show & they categorically stated that they only use Hypalon.

that will be right then dave as the prices on the ron hale site reflect that

babbot1 · 01 March 2016, 12:26

Quote:

Originally Posted by Pikey Dave

A friend of mine bought an AB ally hulled rib as a tender for his yacht. We looked at them at the boat show & they categorically stated that they only use Hypalon.

Perfect! I pretty much figured it was but you know what happens when you assume...