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 manufacturing our range of boats and products.
We are fortunate to have had a head start technologically, as the rowing boat manufacturing side of the business has been operating for over 10 years to date. As rowing boats need to be incredibly light but strong, stiff and fast, our team of boat builders has gained valuable experience in all of the right areas in order to build 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 recent installation of a post-curing oven has given us a huge technological advantage, enabling us to build stronger, more durable kayaks at lighter weights. It also enables us to reduce the production time per boat, something that is of vital importance to the client.
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.
Steven Riley, our kayak section team leader, has been building kayaks for various well-known kayak manufacturers for over 5 years, and is constantly looking to make even faster, lighter, stronger boats.
Rowing:
Hull Shapes
Macarbi has a full range of molds, 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
All Macarbi boats 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 expensive 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 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 manufacturing company in South Africa to post cure our boats. By post curing our boats we produce a stiffer boat with greater durability, meaning that boats will perform better and last longer.
