When it comes to choosing an inflatable unit for your business or event, one of the most important decisions you'll need to make is whether to go with a constant airflow inflatable or a sealed inflatable unit.
Constant airflow inflatables
Constant airflow inflatables, also known as "blower-assisted" inflatables, rely on a constant flow of air supplied by an external blower to maintain their shape and structural integrity. These types of inflatables are typically larger and more complex than sealed inflatables, and they require a more powerful blower to keep them inflated. The cost of a 1.5hp blower is £149+vat. Constant airflow inflatables are usually sewn together which is faster and more economical than sealed inflatables. Additionally, if a small hole appears, the constant airflow inflatable can handle it as the blower speeds up to compensate, this is not the case with sealed inflatables where a small hole can be detrimental.
How are airflow inflatables made?
Industrial sewing machines are a faster and more efficient method of making inflatables. It is a manual process where the operator uses a sewing machine to sew together different pieces of material, such as PVC or nylon, to create the inflatable structure.
One of the main advantages of using industrial sewing machines for inflatable manufacturing is that it allows for greater flexibility in terms of design and customization. Industrial sewing machines can handle a wide variety of materials and can be used to create inflatables of all shapes and sizes, including complex designs and structures. Additionally, industrial sewing
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Sealed Inflatables
Sealed inflatables, also known as "airtight" inflatables, are inflatables that are sealed and self-inflating. Once they are set up and plugged in, they will inflate and maintain their shape without the need for a constant airflow. The cost of a sealed blower is £125+vat. However, sealed inflatables are around 25-50% more expensive due to high labour costs and they are made using high frequency welding.
The application for fully sealed inflatables is endless. We've designed inflatable hobby horses and team building knockout sausages for team building events right through to inflatable backstops, buildings, banana boats and more. Sealed air inflatables are manufactured via a PVC welding process and not sewn together making them highly portable and much firmer for structural applications if required. The sealed air inflatables also remain sealed and are able to float on water unaided.
Sealed air inflatables are perfect for water/ pool inflatables suitable for fresh water, salt water and have had the PVC & thread specifically formulated for longevity in Chlorinated pools.
How are sealed inflatables made?
High frequency welding is a method used to join thermoplastic materials, such as PVC, using high-frequency electromagnetic energy. This process is commonly used in the manufacturing of sealed inflatables. The process begins by placing the two pieces of material to be joined together, with a thin layer of molten plastic between them. The high-frequency electromagnetic energy is then applied to the materials, causing the plastic to melt and bond the two pieces together. The result is a strong, airtight seal that is resistant to leaks and punctures.
One of the main advantages of high frequency welding is that it creates a strong bond between the materials without the need for stitching or adhesives. The process of high frequency welding ensures that inflatables are made with a consistent and high-quality standard. However, it is slower and more expensive compared to industrial sewing machines.
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In conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between a constant airflow inflatable and a sealed inflatable comes down to a matter of personal preference and needs. Constant airflow inflatables are versatile, durable, more economical and can handle small holes. Sealed inflatables are more compact and portable, but are more expensive due to high labour costs and high frequency welding. Both types have their own advantages, it's up to you to decide which one is best for you.
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