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HPDE Checkerplate: Nautical Transom

HDPE Checkerplate: Used as a Transom in the Marine Industry.

A transom, in nautical terms, is the flat, horizontal surface at the stern (back) of the boat. This is a crucial structural component that helps support the boats stern, used as a mounting point for outboard motors, inboard engines and other accessories such as a swim platform.

 

There are several types of boats and applications that could benefit from a HDPE Checkerplate transom. A few examples are as follows. 
 

Ski/ Wakeboard Boats

Used as a swim/mounting platform for riders (wakeboarders/skiers) to dismount into the water for recreational activities. 

 
Fishing/ Sea Exploration Boats

Used as a platform for fisherman to bring in their catches or for divers to dismount into the water. Ladders can also be attached for users to get back into the boat. 

 
Transfer Boats 

Checkerplate materials can be used to create platforms when transferring cruise ship users to their destinations such as remote islands via smaller boats. 

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Benefits of using HDPE Checkerplate over existing materials such as fibreglass, aluminium or wood. 

 HDPE Checkerplate vs Alternative Materials for Nautical Transom Use
MaterialHDPEFibreglass (Composite)WoodAluminium
Water Resistance
 
Impermeable to water, does not absorb moisture or swellLow water absorption, depends on finish qualityWater resistance improves with sealing or pressure treatment, but vulnerable over timeDoes not absorb water, highly resistant but may corrode over time
Water Absorption Rate
 
0.01% (Virtually none)0.1-0.3%8-25%0% (none) 
Chemical Resistance (Overall)
 
Excellent resistance to most chemicalsResin types determine performance, can degrade with solventsNot suitable for strong chemicals, regardless of treatmentSusceptible to corrison from acids and salts
Chemical Resistance (Salt) 
 
ExcellentExcellentFair to PoorFair to Good
UV Degradation
 
Prolonged exposure can cause UV degradation - can be UV stabilisedCan perform well depending on the coatingNo affect from UVSealing can improve resistance, but requires maintenance over time
Corrosion
 
Fully corrosion resistant: does not rust or degrade in contact with water, salt, acids, or basesExcellent resistance to corrosion, can degrade over time with harsh chemicalsSusceptible to long-term moisture damageVulnerable to galvanic, pitting, and saltwater corrosion unless coated or anodised
Density (Weight) 
 
941-965kg/m32000kg/m31500kg/m32699-2810kg/m3
Impact Resistance 
 
Excellent impact resistance: Flexible and tough, does not crack or shatter easilyStrong and stiff, but can be brittle under sudden impactGood impact resistance, depending on wood treatmentModerate impact resistance, may dent or deform rather than crack