Electric inflators for RIBs: Buying guide

No more laborious inflation sessions and sore muscles! 

With electric inflators for semi-rigid boats, say goodbye to the chore and hello to sailing with ease.

In this article Orca Retail tells you everything to make your purchase of an electric inflator easier.

Choosing the right electric inflator for your RIB boat

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

1. Budget

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

• Economy inflators (under 150 euros): Ideal for small boats (under 4 metres) 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 metres).
• High-end inflators (over 300 euros): Intended for larger boats (over 6 metres) and demanding users, with advanced features and great durability.

2. Boat size

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

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

So check the size of your bladders carefully to choose an electric inflator that can inflate your two floats in an acceptable time for you.  

3. Power source

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

• Mains-powered inflators (220V): Powerful and high-performance they allow faster inflation, ideal for bulky boats. Ithey 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 plug into the boat's battery, and therefore offer lower performance. Ideal for use at sea or on remote sites.

4. Features 

Some electric inflators for RIB boats offer additional features that may prove useful, or even essential for some users. Here are some examples:

• Deflating: The deflate function quickly empties the air from your boat's tubes, making it easier to store and transport. This function is particularly useful for large boats or for people who sail frequently.
• LCD display: An LCD display shows the air pressure in real time during inflation and deflation. This information is important to ensure that your bladders are inflated to the correct pressure, optimising the safety and performance of your boat.
• Integrated battery: Some electric inflators are equipped with an integrated battery, making them totally portable and usable at sea or in isolated locations. This option is ideal for boaters looking for great freedom of use.
• Auto shutdown: Auto shutdown allows the inflator to shut down automatically when the desired air pressure is reached. This function prevents the bladders from overinflating, which can damage your boat.
• Thermal overload protection: Thermal overload protection protects the inflator motor from overheating. This protection is important to ensure the longevity of your appliance.
• Accessory storage: Some electric inflators feature a storage area to keep your equipment organised and easily accessible.

How to inflate your RIB boat

1. Preparation: Unfold your RIB boat on a flat, clear 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. Inflation: Select the correct pressure according to your boat manufacturer's recommendations. Activate the inflator and let it do its job!
4. Monitoring: Monitor the air pressure during inflation and stop the process when the pressure recommended by your manufacturer is reached.
5. Fittings: Disconnect the inflator and screw the valve caps back on.
6. Inflating the other bladders (if necessary): Repeat steps 3 to 5 for the other bladders on your boat.

Please note, for the inflation part, there are two stages:

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

Additional tips:

• Consult the 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 working 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/min
• Pressure : 20Psi
• Functions: Inflation, programmable pressure with automatic shutdown
• Weight : Unknown
• Dimensions: 23x14x12cm
• Accessories: 3m hose, 100cm hose with nozzle

LOETAD 150PSI

Noticed price: Between 150 and 250 euros

Features :

• Power supply: 12V
• Rate: Not specified
• Pressure:Adjustable from 0.3 to 10.3 bar (4.5 to 150 psi)
• Functions: Inflation, deflation, pressure measurement and preprogramming
• Weight: Not specified
• Dimensions: Not specified
• Accessories: 2 air nozzles, balloon needle, user manual, 3m power cable

Advantages:

• Multifunctional inflation with pressure pre-programming
• Automatic shutdown at desired pressure
• Integrated LED light for improved visibility
• Compact and portable for easy transport

Bravo Turbomax Scoprega

Noticed price: 300 euros

Features :

• Power supply: 12V
• Flow rate: 1000 L/min
• Pressure: From 175 to 250 mbar - 3.6 psi
• Functions:Inflating and deflating
• 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 mins for a 7m boat)
• Adjustable pressure
• Robust and durable

Disadvantages :

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

Scanstrut Atmos

Source : Tecmar

Reported 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 back
• LCD display

Disadvantages :

• High price

FAQ

How long does it take to inflate your RIB?

The time taken to inflate a 6-metre-long RIB, with standard-sized bladders, is estimated at around 10 to 15 minutes using an electric inflator with a flow rate of 70 L/min. With an electric inflator with a flow rate of 1000 L/min, inflation time can be reduced to around 1 to 2 minutes.

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

The estimated cost of inflating a 6-metre-long RIB with an electric inflator is around €1 to €2 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 want to call in a professional, count between 10 and 20 euros.

What features to look for in an electric RIB inflator

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-pressurisation, and ergonomic handles for easy carrying.