Salvage Airbags: Lifting Heavy Objects Underwater​

Salvage airbags are inflatable rubber bags used to lift sunken vessels, debris, or heavy structures during underwater rescue or construction operations.

​​Types​​

1. ​​Rubber Airbags​​
   • Made of reinforced rubber, ideal for heavy lifting (up to 500 tons).
   • Flexible for uneven surfaces.
2. ​​Hybrid Airbags​​
   • Combine rubber with polyurethane for durability in saltwater.
3. ​​High-Pressure Airbags​​
   • Compact design for precise lifting in tight spaces.

​​Key Advantages​​

• ​​Flexibility​​: Conform to irregular shapes (e.g., shipwrecks).
• ​​Cost-Effective​​: No need for cranes or heavy machinery on-site.
• ​​Efficiency​​: Quick deployment compared to traditional salvage methods.

​​Common Applications​​

• ​​Shipwreck Recovery​​: Raising vessels from seabeds.
• ​​Bridge Construction​​: Lifting submerged materials.
• ​​Disaster Response​​: Clearing blockages in ports or rivers.

​​Challenges​​

• Limited lifting capacity for extremely heavy loads (requires stacking).
• Risk of punctures in rocky environments.
• Requires precise inflation control to avoid sudden shifts.

​​Pro Tip​​: Always inspect airbags for wear before use and anchor them securely during operations.