Zyvex Technologies have announced the launch of a new division, Zyvex Marine to design and build advanced maritime platforms.
In early 2009, the world’s first commercialized carbon nanotube enhanced (CNTe) carbon fiber material, Arovex, enabled the design of a prototype vessel called the 540SE. Setting new standards for fuel efficiency and performance, the lightweight 540SE hull offered a 75% reduction in fuel consumption costs, translating to increased range and lower operating costs.
In 2010, Zyvex manufactured its first prototype craft, the Piranha, taking it from the drawing board and into the water in under a year. Setting new standards in range, speed, sea keeping and payload, the Piranha is a generational leap beyond boats built out of traditional materials like fibreglass or aluminum.
“Any company can unveil an eye-catching concept or a photo render of a boat,” said Russell Belden, Vice President of Design at Zyvex Marine, “We built the Piranha and proved that our designs and technology deliver unmatched performance.”
Zyvex Marine is headquartered in a state-of-the-art facility near Seattle, WA. “Our production facility is closer to rocket science than traditional boat building,” said Byron Nutley, Vice President and General Manager of Zyvex Marine. “We are the only company building boats out of nanomaterials. Zyvex Marine designs and builds the most advanced maritime platforms in the world.”
Composite materials, such as Zyvex’s nano-enhanced carbon fiber Arovex, continue to see greater adoption among boat operators as increased fuel efficiency and reduction in operating costs continue to be primary concerns in the industry. George Marsh, editor of materials magazine Reinforced Plastics, reported on Zyvex in his article Prepregs Boost Marine Quality.
Aircraft builders became convinced some time ago, but constructors of marine craft have followed suit, as customers for yachts and commercial craft seek top performance with structures that are exceptionally light, stiff, and strong.
The estimated $2 million Piranha has already demonstrated a fuel consumption rate of 12 gallons per hour at a cruising speed of 24 knots. Compared to a traditional boat’s consumption of 50 gallons per hour, a 54’ craft from Zyvex offers a 75% reduction in fuel consumption costs.
Zyvex Marine is developing new maritime platforms based on the Piranha’s success and customer demand. Two new platforms will be unveiled later this year.