New plastic vessel heralds revolution in canal boat construction
The eagerly anticipated launch of a world-first canal boat crafted from plastic has been announced by a groundbreaking Bradford company navigating the way to the vessels of the future.
FORMATION Plastics Ltd is the innovator of this state-of-the-art canal barge, meticulously crafted from high-density polyethylene (HDPE). With a base thickness of 20mm, sides of 15mm and a roof thickness of 12mm, this vessel stands as a testament to innovation and sustainability.
Sales and marketing manager Shaun Moir explained: “Our vision extends beyond this single launch as we are actively exploring the creation of a specialised HDPE canal boat for the Crick Boat Show in 2025.” Shaun said the launch of the HDPE canal boat marked “a significant milestone in the boating industry”.
“By leveraging the superior qualities of HDPE, we are not only enhancing the performance and durability of canal boats but also setting new standards for sustainability and efficiency,” he said.
There are many advantages to HDPE, which Formation Plastics has found makes it an ideal material for constructing canal boats. These include:
Durability and longevity: HDPE is renowned for its exceptional durability. It is resistant to the harshest environmental conditions, including UV rays, saltwater and chemicals. This resilience ensures canal boats can withstand prolonged exposure to water and weather without degrading, providing a longer lifespan compared to traditional materials like steel or wood.
Lightweight and buoyant: One of the standout properties of HDPE is its lightweight nature. This significantly enhances the buoyancy of the canal boat, allowing it to float effortlessly while reducing the overall weight. A lighter boat translates to lower fuel consumption and easier handling, making it more efficient and eco-friendly.
Low maintenance: Unlike steel, which is prone to rust, or wood, which can rot, HDPE requires minimal maintenance. It does not corrode, rot or require painting, which drastically reduces the upkeep costs and effort. This makes HDPE canal boats not only cost-effective but also less time-consuming to maintain.
Eco-friendly: HDPE is a recyclable material, aligning with Formation Plastics Ltd’s commitment to sustainability. By choosing HDPE, the company is reducing the environmental footprint of its canal boats. Moreover, the production and recycling processes of HDPE have a lower environmental impact compared to other materials.
Flexibility and strength: The flexibility of HDPE allows for innovative design possibilities, enabling the construction of canal boats that are not only robust but also aesthetically pleasing. The strength of HDPE ensures that the structure can withstand impact and stress, providing a safe and reliable vessel for its occupants.
Shaun said: “With the Crick Boat Show 2025 on the horizon, we are eager to showcase a canal boat that epitomises the future of boating. Our dedicated team of engineers and designers is already working on a specialised model that will highlight the full potential of HDPE.”
And for those wondering, it is also possible to paint on the plastic to create the art historically associated with canal boats. Using a certain primer with a chemical additive that bonds to HDPE, this can be applied to enable traditional sign writing.
Some of the key features of the Crick 2025 boat will be:
Advanced design:
Incorporating the latest in boat design technology, focusing on both functionality and aesthetics.
Sustainability:
Emphasising eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems, showcasing a commitment to green boating.
Innovation:
Integrating modern amenities and smart technology to enhance the boating experience.
For Formation Plastics the canal boat is the latest in a long line of impressive projects from these experts in crafting premium plastic products, that go back more than 28 years.
Specialising in a diverse range of plastic solutions, from bespoke one-off designs to large-scale production, Formation Plastics has long been at the forefront of innovation and precision. Seasoned professionals leverage cutting-edge technology and creative techniques to consistently deliver unparalleled results.
At Formation Plastics, the pivotal role of precision, durability and aesthetic appeal in plastics engineering is paramount and commitment to these principles is unwavering, ensuring that each product meets the highest standards of quality.
Meticulous attention to detail, skilled craftsmanship and punctual delivery sets the company apart.
Now delving into the extraordinary realm of HDPE canal boating, this unique vessel is a testament to all that has gone before, pushing the boundaries of conventional norms.
Shaun said: “As we look forward to the Crick Boat Show 2025, our ambition is to lead the way in innovative canal boat design, proving that HDPE is indeed the material of the future.
“Join us as we navigate towards a greener, more efficient future in boating, with our groundbreaking HDPE canal boat leading the way.”
If you want more information or wish to witness the famous HDPE canal boat first-hand, a team of experts is ready to provide you with comprehensive details, answer any queries you may have and guide you through the features of a HDPE canal boat. For more info: www.formationplastics.co.uk or email: [email protected]
