Why are Mooring Buoys called Buoys?

The name Buoy comes from way back in the 13 Century from the French word “Boie” meaning Beacon.

By definition anchoring buoys are used in several ways to mark a location, warn of danger, or indicate a navigational channel.

To this end RotoTank™ has designed and manufactures Buoys that are strong and durable from only the highest quality plastics.

rototank buoy, buoy, anchoring buoy

What is the purpose of anchoring buoys in the ocean?

Buoys are navigational aids that float on top of the water and are placed strategically to give boaters crucial information about the waterways. Anchoring Buoys must be self-righting in the water and made of durable, rigid plastic, according to international regulations.

rototank, anchoring beacon

How do buoys stay in place?

How do buoys stay in one spot and not just float away the simple answer is an anchor. For the buoys (and your boat) to stay in place an anchor system will need to be attached to the buoy. There are three types of anchors commonly used to secure the buoys to the waterbed: pin anchors, U-bolt anchors and Manta Ray anchors.

How are buoys made?

A buoy floats on the surface and is moored to the waterbed. They need to withstand the harsh conditions of changing weather and the temperatures of the water and sun. To last extended periods of time in the water buoys need to be made from strong durable materials. RotoTank™ buoys are manufactured from LLDPE plastics as per recommended standards. They are Roto Moulded which ensures an even plastic ratio of the buoy. They are manufactured in bright colours to be visible from a distance to ensure safety for not only vessels and boats but also for divers under the water.

rototank, anchoring beacon

What are the main uses of Buoys?

  • A buoy is a Floating object anchored at a definite location to guide or warn mariners, to mark positions of submerged objects, or to moor vessels in lieu of anchoring.
  • Two international buoyage systems are used to mark channels and submerged dangers. In both systems, buoys of standardized colours and shapes indicate safe passageways.
  • Special-purpose buoys are designed for a variety of uses; they include cable buoys, anchor buoys, or race buoys.
  • A mooring buoy differs from other types in not being an aid to navigation but a point to which vessels may be tied up. Secured to a permanent group of anchors by a heavy chain, such a buoy serves as a connecting link between the vessel and the anchors.
  • The use of mooring buoys conserves space in crowded harbours because a moored vessel requires less room to swing with the wind and tide than does a vessel at anchor.
rototank, channel marker buoys

 

Why purchase a RotoTank Buoy?

RotoTank™ Buoys have been evaluated and undergone extensive testing in Cape Town at the V&A waterfront and harbour, also in various other dams and waterways around South Africa, so when you are looking for the best and most durable buoys, look no further they can be produced in bulk and to a colour you require. Meeting the highest international standards RotoTank™ puts your safety first.