Technology

Kayaks:

Technology will ultimately produce the best boats. Speed, strength, durability, stiffness in sprint boats, weight and overall quality are some of the things that Macarbi strives for daily, whilst repairing or having our range of boats and products manufactured.

We are fortunate to have had a head start technologically, as the rowing boat manufacturing side of the business started operating over 10 years ago. As rowing boats need to be incredibly light but strong, stiff and fast, our team of technicians has gained valuable experience in all of the right areas in order to provide top quality kayaks, whilst making use of the best composites around.

We have researched all of the building materials around for the various lay-ups required per boat class, and have found the correct recipe to give us the desired results, namely light, strong boats, with the right ratios of stiffness and flexibility, depending on the type of boat.

Our innovations program that was implemented at the beginning of 2005 has already offered numerous technological improvements, and is fast-gaining momentum, ensuring a bright future for Macarbi and the South African paddler.

Stephen Riley, our workshop manager, has been building kayaks for various well-known kayak manufacturers for many years, and is constantly looking to make even faster, lighter, stronger boats.

Rowing:

Hull Shapes
Macarbi has access to numerous boat suppliers, covering the various weight categories, from singles to eights. Our range of hull shapes accommodates all levels of ability. We are always looking at new hull designs and shapes in order to stay ahead of our competition, providing the customer with the correct shape to fit his or her requirements.

The Wing rigger
Many boats supplied by Macarbi are designed with wing riggers, giving them a stiffer feel with a more solid connection. The riggers put less stress on the hull, and allow less water to enter the boat in rough conditions.

Imported Materials
In order to ensure that we offer the best quality product possible, we use imported carbon cloths, kevlar and nomex honeycomb. We also use the most advanced resin matrix available on the South Africa market.

Precision Fittings
Every care is taken to ensure that all our boat fittings are of top standard (many are imported), allowing ease of adjustment and precise set-up.

Lean Production
Macarbi has implemented a manufacturing process know as “lean production”, bringing world class manufacturing/repair techniques to the rowing and kayaking industry. This means we are able to produce better quality products in shorter lead times and at better prices than our competitors, providing the customer with "more boat for the money paid".

Post Curing
We are the first rowing boat supply company in South Africa to ensure the availability of post-cured boats. By having our boats post cured, we can produce stiffer products with greater durability, meaning that equipment will perform better and last longer.