Hovercraft aided by TineLok technology

HAUPPAUGE, N.Y., Aug. 26 (UPI) -- U.S. Navy officials say the Hovercraft's new skirt design uses a Permanent Technologies Inc. system to lower maintenance and replacement costs.

New York-based Permanent Technologies was contracted to supply its TineLok Vibration-Proof Fastening System to support the Hovercraft Landing Craft, Air Cushion amphibious vehicle.

Officials say the Navy's redesigned Hovercraft skirt integrates the TineLok Fastening system as part of an effort to ease difficulties with maintenance while also lowering the cost.

Formerly the Hovercraft skirt was frequently damaged during operation and required ongoing costly maintenance.

"The skirts are exposed to harsh environments on land and sea, as well as extreme vibration from the thrust needed to lift and power the Landing Craft, Air Cushion," Loren Ball, Permanent Technologies president and chief executive officer, said in a statement.

"When the skirts tear, they must be replaced for the Hovercraft to operate efficiently. With the Navy's new skirt design, which will specify the TineLok Fastening system for this critical component, the repair, replacement and maintenance will be faster, safer and less costly than ever before."