There are different types of aluminum ships ladders manufactured, including a straight ladder, a fold-down ladder, a collapsible ladder, and a custom-made specialty ladder.
The steps for making each type of Aluminum Ships Ladder are as follows:
Straight Ladders
These ladders are used on commercial fishing boats where the side of the ship is relatively smooth. After cutting the parts to the appropriate length, the ends are mitered at a 45° angle. The next step is making sure that all surfaces are sanded smooth, and all sharp edges have been removed. After cleaning the ladder with soap and water, an acid etches solution will be applied to all aluminum surfaces to remove any residue from shipping oil and give it a nice clean surface for painting. After the ladder is thoroughly cleaned and etches, an anti-corrosion primer will be applied, and two coats of aluminum paint will be used.
Fold-Down Ladders
These ladders are used when the side of the boat has a bulwark or railing. The frames for these types of ladders are made in the same way as straight ladders. The specific steps for this type are making sure that all sharp edges have been removed, applying an acid etch solution to remove residue from shipping oil, using a grid mask before spraying paint to ensure there is no overspray on the railing, and repainting after each use.
Collapsible Ladders
When using a collapsible ladder, three or more aluminum extrusions have been cut to the appropriate length and widths. The ends of each ladder have been mitered at a 45° angle and prepped for painting. A grid mask is then applied to the extrusions to prevent overspray. The ladder will be painted in three stages, the frame, treads, and handrails or lift struts.
Specialty Custom Made Ladders
Any aluminum ship’s ladder can also be custom-made if necessary. Stair landings are removable so that they can go up the side of the vessel with ease. Stair widths are customizable to the size of the boat, so they fit properly. A customized aluminum ship’s ladder can also have more steps if necessary.
Side Rail Ladders
Side rail ladders are used on large commercial ships, vessels with open decks, and for entry at ports that do not have stairs or access facilities. These types of ladders are usually made of metal. Stretchers are mounted on the sides of the boat, which have rollers so they can move up and down easily.
Steps for Making Aluminum Ships Ladder Are as follows:
– Cutting pieces to appropriate length with mitered ends at 45° angle for a straight ladder
– Making sure all surfaces are sanded smooth, and all sharp edges have been removed
– Applying an acid etch solution to remove residue from shipping oil
– Agitating the acid etch solution with a powder brush to make sure it has reached every surface of the ladder
– Rinsing off the ladder with soap and water
– Applying an anti-corrosion primer to the ladder
– Spraying two coats of aluminum paint on the entire ladder
Final Thoughts on Ships Ladders
These ladders are made tough and durable so that they will last for many years. They are also corrosion-resistant, meaning they do not need to be painted often or throughout their lifetime. Aluminum is a durable, hard yet lightweight material that can be easily moved around. It is manufactured to withstand tough conditions, so it will not warp or bend. The lightweight of the ladders makes them easy for people to move without assistance.
Aluminum ships ladders are safe to use because they are non-conductive, which means no chance of electrocution. They are also non-magnetic, which means no chance of sparks in the presence of flammable materials.