Electric inflators for RIBs: Buying guide

No more laborious inflation sessions and sore muscles! 

With electric inflators for RIB boats, say goodbye to chores and hello to easy sailing.

In this article, Orca Retail tells you everything you need to know about buying an electric inflator.

Choosing the right electric inflator for your RIB boat

When choosing an electric inflator for your RIB boat, it's important to consider the following factors:

1. Budget

The price of electric inflators for RIB boats varies considerably according to their characteristics, ranging from less than 100 euros for entry-level models, to top-of-the-range models which can exceed 300 euros.

• Low-cost inflators (under 150 euros): Ideal for small boats (under 4 meters) and occasional use.
• Mid-range inflators (150 to 300 euros): Offer good value for money and are suitable for most RIB boats (4 to 6 meters).
• Top-of-the-range inflators (over 300 euros): For larger boats (over 6 meters) and demanding users, with advanced features and high durability.

2. Boat size

The power required for your electric inflator depends on the size of your RIB and its tubes:

• 4-metre semi-rigid: 200 to 300 liters per coil
• 5-metre semi-rigid: 300 to 400 liters per coil
• 6-metre semi-rigid: 400 to 500 liters per coil
• 7-metre semi-rigid: 500 to 600 liters per coil
• 8-metre semi-rigid: 600 to 800 liters per coil

Be sure to check the size of your tubes, and choose an electric inflator that can inflate both your floats in an acceptable time.  

3. Power supply

Electric inflators for RIB boats are available in two main versions:

• Mains-powered inflators (220V): Powerful, high-performance inflators for faster inflation, ideal for larger boats. Ihey require a mains socket to operate and are less compact. Perfect for dockside or home use.
• Battery-powered inflators (12V): More compact and portable, these inflators connect to the boat's battery, and therefore offer lower performance. Ideal for use at sea or in remote locations.

4. Features 

Some electric inflators for RIB boats offer additional features that can be useful, essential for some users. Here are just a few examples:

• Deflate: The deflate function quickly empties the air from your boat's bladders, making it easier to store and transport. This function is particularly useful for large boats or frequent sailors.
• LCD display: An LCD display shows air pressure in real time during inflation and deflation. This information is important to ensure that your bladders are inflated to the correct pressure, optimizing your boat's safety and performance.
• Built-in battery: Some electric inflators feature a built-in battery, making them totally portable for use at sea or in remote locations. This option is ideal for boaters looking for great freedom of use.
• Automatic shut-off: The automatic shut-off feature allows the inflator to switch off automatically when the desired air pressure is reached. This function prevents over-inflation of the bladders, which can damage your boat.
• Thermal overload protection: Thermal overload protection protects the inflator motor from overheating. This protection is important for the longevity of your unit.
• Accessory storage: Some electric inflators feature storage space to keep your equipment organized and easily accessible.

How to inflate your RIB boat?

1. Preparation: Unfold your RIB on a flat, unobstructed surface. Make sure the air valves are easily accessible.
2. Connection: Connect the inflator to a power source (mains socket or battery) and connect it to the boat's main bladder via the air hose supplied.
3. Inflating : Select the correct pressure according to your boat manufacturer's recommendations. Activate the inflator and let it do its job!
4. Monitoring: Monitor air pressure during inflation and stop the process when the pressure recommended by your manufacturer is reached.
5. Connections : Disconnect the inflator and screw the valve plugs back on.
6. Inflating other bladders (if necessary) : Repeat steps 3 to 5 for the other bladders on your boat.

Please note that there are two stages in the inflation process:

1. Low-pressure inflation: In this phase, fill the bladders with air to give them their initial shape, at a low pressure of between 0.2 and 0.3 bar.
2. High-pressure inflation: Next, bring your bladders up to the operating pressure specified by the boat manufacturer (generally between 0.7 and 1.2 bar). 

Additional tips:

• Consult your boat owner's manual for recommended inflation pressures.
• Inflate the boat in a clean, dry place.
• Never use an air compressor to inflate the bladders.
• Check flange pressure regularly and adjust if necessary.
• Never exceed the maximum operating pressure specified by the manufacturer.

Selection of 4 electric inflators for RIB boats

Spinera 12V

Price : 100 euros

Features :

• Power supply: 12V 
• Flow rate: 70L/mn
• Pressure : 20Psi
• Functions : Inflation, programmable pressure with automatic shut-off
• Weight : Unknown
• Dimensions: 23x14x12cm
• Accessories : 3m cable, 100cm hose with nozzle

LOETAD 150PSI

Price : Between 150 and 250 euros

Features :

• Power supply : 12V
• Flow rate: Not specified
• Pressure : Adjustable from 0,3 à 10,3 bar (4,5 to 150 psi)
• Functions : Inflation, deflation, pressure measurement and pre-programming
• Weight : Not specified
• Dimensions : Not specified
• Accessories : 2 air nozzles, balloon needle, user manual, 3m power cable

Advantages:

• Multifunctional inflation with pre-programmed pressures
• Automatic shut-off at desired pressure
• Integrated LED light for enhanced visibility
• Compact and portable for easy transport

Bravo Turbomax Scoprega

Price : 300 euros

Features :

• Power supply : 12V
• Flow rate : 1000 L/mn
• Pressure : From 175 to 250 mbar - 3.6 psi
• Functions : Inflation and deflation
• Weight : 3.5 kg
• Dimensions : 31 x 18 x 19 cm
• Accessories: End caps, Battery clips, 3 m cable, Carrying case

Advantages :

• Quick inflation and deflation (7 minutes for a 7m boat)
• Adjustable pressure
• Robust and durable

Disadvantages :

• High prices
• Connects only to battery (car, boat)

Scanstrut Atmos

Source : Tecmar

Price : 557 €

Features:

• Power supply : 12V
• Power : Not specified
• Pressure : 20 PSI (1.5 bar)
• Functions: Inflation, deflation
• Weight: 4.3 kg
• Dimensions: 31x38x26 cm
• Accessories : 2.5 m hose, 6 different connectors, sun protection cover

Advantages :

• Integrates directly into your boat (compact and shallow)
• IPX6 waterproof front and rear
• LCD display

Disadvantages :

• High prices

FAQ

How long does it take to inflate a RIB?

The inflation time for a 6-meter-long RIB with standard-sized bladders is estimated at around 10 to 15 minutes with an electric inflator rated at 70 L/min. With an electric inflator rated at 1000 L/min, inflation time can be reduced to around 1-2 minutes.

How much does it cost to inflate a RIB in France?

The estimated cost of inflating a 6-meter-long RIB with an electric inflator is around 1 to 2 euros with a 70 L/min inflator, and a few cents with a 1000 L/min inflator, assuming an average electricity cost in France of 0.2516 €/kWh.

If you wish to call in a professional, please allow between 10 and 20 euros.

What features should you look for in an electric inflator for RIBs?

Some additional features may include built-in pressure gauges to measure pressure during inflation, multiple valve adapters for increased compatibility, automatic shut-offs to prevent over-pressurization, and ergonomic handles for easy transport.