FAQ Product

FAQ about Hammar lifejacket inflators

1. How does it work?
The Hammar automatic inflator has a unique hydrostatic valve that works by the pressure difference between the inside of the bladder and the outside. When the inflator is immersed in water by 10 cm, the hydrostatic valve opens and water will have access to a water sensitive element. This in turn releases a stainless steel spring mechanism, which pierces the CO2 cylinder.

2. Will the lifejacket inflate in humidity or if it gets wet?
No, because it requires pressure on the hydrostatic valve to allow water ingress to activate. It can withstand spray, wave splash and high humidity without causing accidental inflation. Accidental inflation can cause accidents.

3. Will the CO2 cylinder corrode?
No, the cylinder is carried inside the inflatable bladder and therefore protected from the atmosphere and corrosive effects of salt water.

4. How can I tell if the CO2 cylinder is leaking?
Quite easy, due to the cylinder being housed inside the inflatable bladder, the bladder will start to inflate if the cylinder leaks.

5. What about in extreme conditions?
Extreme cold conditions will not affect the hydrostatic system. The cylinder is inside the bladder and moisture cannot get in to form ice. Furthermore the CO2 does not have to enter through a valve to inflate the lifejacket.

6. How long does it take to inflate?
Once the inflator is activated, it will take no more than 4-5 seconds to full inflation. Extreme cold (-30°) can prolong inflation by 1-2 seconds.

7. What about servicing the hydrostatic inflator? How often and how much will it cost?
The hydrostatic inflator does not require servicing, therefore the cost is 0. The only time it will need to be serviced is:

If it has been used i.e. inflated
5 years from manufacture, this is shown on the face of the valve.

How to perform the annual service on your lifejacket? click here

Check that the single point indicator is green
Check: Is manual handle still attached? If yes, the lifejacket is armed and ready for use. Otherwise the lifejacket has to be re-armed.

Important! The lifejacket itself has to be serviced annually according to the manufacturer's instructions.

8. How easy is it to recharge the lifejacket?
Very easy, you can obtain a full re-arming kit from your dealer, which carries full step-by-step instructions.

9. How much will the lifejacket inflator cost?
The Hammar lifejacket Inflator needs no service and has a 5 years expiry date, so it's very cost efficient. All these advantages will cost you a little more from the start, but it will actually save you money in the long run. Please contact your dealer for price information.

10. Can I bring my lifejacket with the hydrostatic inflator on an airplane?
The Hammar Manual/Automatic Inflator is not activated by pressure cabins in aircrafts, but you must check with your air company if they allow inflatable lifejackets onboard. Inflatable lifejackets are generally allowed onboard aircrafts according to the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulation but each air company may have their own rules.

FAQ about lifejacket service

1. Where do I find an authorised service station?
Please check with your lifejacket manufacturer:

2. If there is no authorised service station in the vicinity?
Please contact the lifejacket manufacturer for advice.

3. I’m out at sea most of the time and with limited access to a service station – what should I do?
Make sure to always carry a replacement kit onboard and follow the step by step rearming instruction.

4. I’m a recreational user and in my country we are advised to service the lifejacket every second year?
Self-service one year and an authorised service station every second year is a reasonable compromise.

5. I don’t use my lifejacket very much – do I have to service it that often?
All inflatable lifejackets must be serviced annually regardless of use.

6. What do I do if the lifejacket does not hold air when I am checking it myself?
Please contact nearest authorised service station or the lifejacket manufacturer directly.

7. The lifejacket holds the air, but the sealing ring has started to change colour or show sign of cracks– what should I do?
Please contact the lifejacket manufacturer or one of their service stations for further checking.

You are always welcome to contact us at Hammar for more information: info@cmhammar.com