|
Hunter
Marine Patented Advanced Composite Process (ACP)
ACP is the most modern production boat building method being
used today. It starts on the outside with a tough outer shell that
is both weather and scratch resistant. The outer layer is then backed
up with a high density urethane foam to add stiffness and impact resistance.
The entire structure is strengthened by a layer of knitted biaxial
fiberglass bonded inside the foam.
Finish
The outer layer of ACP is a BASF plastic
called LURAN-S. This plastic is specially formulated to provide a
beautiful glossy finish that is very easy to maintain. Dirt and grime
is easily removed without the use of harsh chemicals. The finish will
never develop the crazing associated with gel-coat and since the color
goes so deep into the outer layer, scratches can be sanded out and
buffed back to nearly new finish. This makes most minor damage easy
to repair without using special techniques, resins, or paints. Since
you can do this quickly and easily yourself, you’ll save money. But
since the ACP structure is so much stronger than fiberglass, you’re
much less likely to have to repair it to begin with.
Impact resistant
The outer plastic surface of the structure
works in combination with urethane foam backing to provide nearly
5 times the impact resistance of traditional fiberglass. Instead of
thin brittle coating on the outside, the ABS backed Luran-S plastic
is both thick and flexible. When an ACP boat is struck by an impact,
the outer skin will flex slightly to absorb the energy. Flexing is
much better than breaking. Next, the urethane foam backing supports
the skin and diffuses the impact energy through a large area. Finally,
the fiberglass backing holds the structure intact, thus preventing
significant damage. Where a fiberglass boat might have a large crack
or hole, an ACP boat will suffer no more than a surface scratch.
Positive Flotation
Aside from it’s beautiful and durable finish, ACP construction
provides yet another benefit. Safety. The foam backing that provides
the structural rigidity, also makes the boat unsinkable. In the unlikely
event an ACP boat is completely filled with water, it will still stay
afloat. The material itself provides the positive flotation, eliminating
the need for airbags or foam blocks inside the hull. |