1. Pre-Launch Prepration
1.1 Check Your Rubber Airbags:
Make sure airbags have no cracks, leaks, or worn parts. Use ones that can hold more weight than your ship (add 30% extra to be safe).
Other Tools: Test hydraulic pumps/ air compressor, winches, and hoses-they need to work well.
1.2 Check the Launch Site Ground:
The area should be smooth, with a small slope (1:10 to 1:15) so the ship slides easily. Remove sharp things that could puncture airbags.
Water: The water must be deep enough (1.5 times the ship's draft) so the ship doesn't hit the bottom.
Weather: Don't launch in strong winds (over 6 degrees), heavy rain, or rough seas.
1.3 Airbag Arrangement:
Put airbags straight across the sliding direction, spaced evenly along the ship. Add extra airbags under heavy parts (like the middle of the ship) to spread weight. Mark where to put airbags with chalk/tape. Decide who will watch the air pressure, winches, and water entry-give them walkie-talkies.
2. On-Site Launch Steps
2.1 Install and Inflate Airbags
Use a crane/forklift to place deflated airbags on the marked spots (make sure they touch the ship and ground). Connect airbags to the pump and inflate slowly. Keep pressure between 0.3–0.8 MPa (don't overinflate-they could burst). Check if the ship is lifted evenly (no tilting). If it tilts, adjust air pressure in some airbags.
2.2 Let the Ship Slide
Attach winches to the ship's front and back to control speed. Keep winch cables tight but not too tight. Slow down release the winch brakes-let the ship slide down the slope. Watch the direction: if the ship veers off, adjust winch tension or use ropes to guide it. Keep speed at 0.5–1 m/s. If it's too fast, gently use the winch brakes.
2.3 After the Ship Launches Into Water
When the ship launches, disconnect the winch cables. Get airbags back from the water-check for damage, deflate them slowly, clean them, and store in a dry place. Check the ship: make sure there's no hull damage or water leaks. Ensure it can sail safely.
3. Key Safety Tips
All workers must wear safety helmets, life jackets, and anti-slip shoes. Keep others away from the launch area. Never exceed the airbag's max pressure. Add a pressure relief valve to the pump. Make sure airbags are spaced evenly-uneven weight can break airbags or bend the ship. Keep emergency gear handy (fire extinguishers, first-aid kits). Teach workers what to do if something goes wrong (like an airbag leak).
4. Keep Airbags in Good Shape
Check airbags before/after use-replace ones with big wear or holes. Clean airbags after use (remove salt/mud) and store them in a cool, dry place (no direct sun, no sharp things). Once a year, test airbags: inflate to max pressure, hold for 24 hours. If pressure drops over 5%, fix the leak. Check valves and hoses often-replace worn parts. Store hoses coiled neatly.