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This just in! – Clear View Fiberglass Propane Tanks by Ragasco

Go2marine is proud to carry Clear View Fiberglass Propane Tanks by Ragasco. Clear View tanks are unparalleled in the safe handling of propane, are extremely weather and corrosion resistant, lightweight and offer the ability to view the level of fuel through the tank.

Clear View Fiberglass Propane Tanks, 3 & 5 Gallon Tanks

Safety and Propane

Propane is a gas, as well as the third most commonly used fuel in the United States after gasoline and diesel. In its natural state, propane is colorless, odorless, and 1.5 times heavier than air. Because propane is heavier than air, it tends to sink into basements, bilges and all other low areas. To make it more detectable, manufacturers add an odorant to give it a “rotten egg” or sour smell. In its stored and transported state, propane is a liquid–a very cold liquid under pressure, often referred to as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).

The U.S. Fire Administration reports that about 150 injuries and 5 deaths occur each year from mostly residential grill fires, caused by propane. Also, each year fire service responds to 6500 grill fires accounting for approximately $28 million in property loss. Four out of five Americans have the equivalent of a large, flammable explosive device right outside their homes, or inside a garage or shed. Additionally, most motor homes, RVs and boats have propane as a fuel source.

Portable propane tanks are commonly made from metal (steel or aluminum) or composite (fiberglass). All modern propane tanks come with a pressure release valve that will release some of the propane in the event of a fire. The traditional steel or aluminum propane tank has one big drawback when they are on fire. Metal tanks heat up, releasing the gas through the pressure valve until the liquid is boiling and overwhelming the valve. At this time the metal propane tank explodes.

 

Surveillance video from a Wal-Mart in Kentucky captures a metal propane tank exploding in the back of a pickup truck. The driver survived with burns. Note the pressure relief valve working before the propane tank explodes.

Safer Propane Tanks

Fiberglass (Composite) propane tanks are the safer tank for many reasons. Composite propane tanks are also fitted with pressure relief valves that will allow the propane to ‘blow off’. Unlike a rigid metal tank, when a fiberglass composite tank is in a fire it will soften, then burn through with a controlled burnout, instead of an explosion.

Ragasco is the world’s leading developer and manufacturer of LPG composite cylinders. The high-volume production facility in Raufoss Norway is the most advanced of its kind world-wide. They are committed on quality, safety and innovative solutions that add value to customers and preserves the environment.

In the USA, the cylinders are approved in accordance with DOT-SP-12706, which is based on ISO11119-3.2, CFR49, FRP-1 and DOT specific requirements. Authorized Testing Institute is the third party approval organization for the manufacturing line and product.

In Canada, the cylinders are approved in accordance with TC-SU-5931, which is based on ISO11119-3.2 and BS 3.3.9, TC-3FCM, CAN/CSA B339 and further Transport Canada requirements. Authorized Testing Institute is the third party approval organization for the manufacturing line and product.

Ragasco regards this commitment to safety to be the basis for manufacturing and approvals in all EC-countries from the issuing date 2001-10-25, resulting in more than 2.5 million approved cylinders. In addition, approximately 500,000 cylinders are approved by local authorities in various markets on all continents.

 Clear View Fiberglass Propane Tanks at Go2marine.

Corrosion / Weather Resistant

Due to the composite fiberglass construction, Clear View propane tanks can be used in many environments. By design and materials, the fiberglass tank may be used on a vessel, a forklift or an outdoor BBQ alike with little worry of the effects of sun, salt or weather. For aesthetic purposes, cylinders can be easily be cleaned by power-washing with a soap and water solution. Sand-blasting or painting of the cylinders is not necessary. UV additives and stabalizers have been applied to the casing material. Finally, as part of the approval, Clear View fiberglass tanks are tested and approved down to -40F / -40C.

Lightweight, with a Clear View

Fiberglass propane tanks weigh 50% less than steel counterparts and 20% less than aluminum. This lighter weight makes the tanks easier to handle. The ability to view the propane through the fiberglass tank removes all guessing as to the level. Additionally, the translucent quality of the tank allows you to view fuel level as the tank is being filled.

The choice is Clear – Clear View Fiberglass Propane Tanks!

New EPIRBs and PLBs from GME!

Go2marine carries GME EPIRBs (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons) and PLBs (Personal Locator Beacons), which are designed to transmit an internationally recognized digital 406 MHZ distress signalwhen activated. They are designed to communicate to rescue services such as the Coast Guard, when nothing else will work. Rescue Beacons have a self sufficient power source that is able to function in the most rugged conditions for a minumum of 48 hours (Epirb) or 24 hours (PLB). Uniquely, EPIRBs and PLBs may be used anywhere on earth, but, they are typically designated in their use in certain environments.

The functional differences between each of the the rescue beacons, EPIRB and PLB:

• EPIRBstend to be larger (due to larger battery) and are used in the marine environment only. They come with a leash to tie them to a raft of vessel. They are waterproof and float. EPIRBs are typically assigned to a vessel.
• PLBs are smaller, used on land (or water), battery life is not as long as an EPIRB. GME PLBs are waterproof and float. PLBs are intended for personal use, away from normal emergency services.

Additionally, all GME EPIRBs or PLBs  are offered in versions that come with or without GPS to augment the satellite fix. The addition of GPS to any of these emergency beacons will increase location accuracy while reducing wait time for rescue.

GME AccuSat EPIRBs

AccuSat is made in 4 variations of a well designed EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons). All EPIRBS include a self testing facility allows the beacons functionality to be tested without fear of accidentally transmitting a distress signal. Additionally, the test actually measures the transmitters power output, not just the battery condition. The AccuSat Class 2 EPIRB is available in two deployment styles; manual release or automatic hydrostatic release.  

AccuSat 406 EPIRB, Class 2, Non-Hazmat Battery, MT-430xx

All GME EPIRBs have the following features:

• Completely waterproof.
• Fitted with long life batteries capable of retaining up to 90% of their original Amp Hour capacity after 10 years.
• Safety seal which serves to indicate that the beacon has never been turned on and the batteries have not been used.
• Extended GME warranty, 6 years on the battery and unit.
• GME Electrophone has full service and maintenance facilities to maintain your beacon and provide recertification where required.

GME AccuSat 406 PLBs

The MT410 GME AccuSat PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) is the smallest & lightest PLB rescue beacon currently made. Additionally, the MT410 offers the industries longest warranties; a 7 year battery replacement life and a 7 year operational warranty. Design features such as a ‘Non Hazmat’ battery pack for simple and cost effective transportation as well as a high intensity flashing LED all contribute to this quality safety equipment.

AccuSat 406 Personal Locator Beacon, W/ or W/O GPS, Non-Hazmat Battery, MT-410x

All GME PLBs have the following features

• Digital 406 MHz, 5 Watt transmission plus 121.5 MHz homing signal
• COSPAS-SARSAT worldwide operation
• High visibility flashing light Retention strap and fully buoyant design
• Complete with protective carry pouch

GME has been designing and manufacturing rescue beacons for over 30 years in Australia for boaters, bush walkers, 4 x 4 enthusiasts and aviators should they ever require emergency assistance.

ALL GME rescue beacon EPIRBs and PLBs can be user tested once a year without impacting battery life.

LED Marine Lighting – from Dr. LED

Dr. LED is not just another supplier of LED lighting, they are an innovator of LED lighting products.

Go2marine has introduced the Dr. LED line of lighting with several of the unique products offered. Dr. LED lights use patented “Constant Energy Technology” utilizing ultra efficient energy transfer from power sources to the LEDs. Power sources include: line voltage (120VAC, 240VAC), low voltage systems (12VAC, 24VAC), battery systems (12VDC, 24VDC, 28VDC), or alternative charging sources such as wind, solar panels, etc.

Dr. LED bulbs have active electronics built in to regulate the energy going into each LED, so that they do not overheat and/or burn out prematurely at the high end of the source voltage range, while maintaining an optimal level of light output for each given type of LED. As incandescent and halogen replacements, Dr. LED uses warm white lights (~3200 K), instead of the cold (~6000 K) LEDs more commonly used.

Dr. LED lights are also given names, for reasons that are logical as well as those of friends.

 A Surface Mounted Submersible LED Light, Underwater Lamp, named “Dave”.

Underwater Surface Mounted Submersible LED Light - Dave

Dave offers a waterproof LED light producing 400+ Lumen of light. Useful in the Engine Room (no risk of explosion), as  spreader light, in the cockpit or even below the waterline!

 

A Versatile Waterproof LED Light, Spreader Lamp, named “Kevin”.

Versatile Waterproof LED Light, Spreader Lamp, "Kevin"

Kevin is a bright, versatile waterproof lamp supplying 600+ Lumen. Outstanding light output from an energy saving LED fixture. Useful as a spreader light, tower light or anyplace you need ample light to work.

 

 Navigation Table Light, Navigation Chart w/ Red & White LED Lamp, named “Cobra”.

Navigation Table Light, Nav Chart LED Lamp, Cobra, Red & White

The Cobra is the world’s first and Only Bi-Color (Red/White) single high-Flux LED chart and reading light. This gooseneck chart light is a must for all navigational tables.

 

Edison Medium Screw Base LED Bulb, 12V/3W – 60 Watt equivalent, named “Sidekick”.

Edison Medium Screw Base LED Bulb, 3W, Sidekick

The Sidekick is a unique LED bulb in that it retains the usefulness of a conventional Edison medium base bulb (most standard light fixtures). The bulb gives off the warm glow of an incandelesent bulb while allowing the common ‘clip-on’ shades to still work.

Go2marines’s complete Dr. LED products

Common Features to all of Dr. LED light fixtures include:

Extremely rugged and ample heat sinking to the LEDs to ensure long life operation.
Multi-voltage 12VDC or 24VDC or 12VAC.
Works on most low voltage outdoor lighting systems.
Instant on, no warm-up of bulb needed.
Long service life, up to 50,000 hours.
Not hot – warm to the touch.
Shockproof, ultra-rugged with no filament to burn out or break.

121.5 and 243 MHz emergency beacons will no longer be monitored by satellite after February 1, 2009

 From the USCG Internet Notice,

http://www.sarsat.noaa.gov/

http://www.uscg.mil/global/widget/beacon.asp

The USCG and NOAA have issued a notice that 121.5 and 243 MHz emergency beacons will no longer be monitored by satellite after February 1, 2009. This is an international agreement that 406 will be the only recognized satellite emergency signal.

NOTE - – Pilots are reminded and encouraged to monitor 121.5 MHz from their cockpit to listen for other aircraft that may be in distress.

406 EPIRB Frequencies will continue as the primary satellite rescue frequency. Please ensure that you are indeed using a 406 EPIRB (Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacons) or PLB (Personal Locator Beacons).

Go2marine only carries 406.037 MHz, EPIRBs and PLBs from recognized manufactures such as ACR, Mcmurdo and Spot, that are approved by COSPAS-SARSAT, R&TTE, or the FCC. Go2marine also sells EPIRBs that are certified to pass the country of origin for any international vessel.

 

COSPAS-SARSAT rescue information

Number of Persons Rescued in 2009 (As of January 15) in the United States:  6
Rescues at sea:  3 people rescued in 2 incidents
Aviation rescues:  1 person rescued in 1 incident
PLB rescues:  2 people rescued in 2 incidents

Number of Persons Rescued in 2008 in the United States: 283

Rescues at sea:  203 people rescued in 65 incidents
Aviation rescues:  12 people rescued in 7 incidents
PLB rescues:  68 people rescued in 35 incidents

United States Number of Persons Rescued – 6,045 People Rescued  (since 1982)

Worldwide Number of Persons Rescued – Over 24,500+ People Rescued  (since 1982)

 

406 MHz EPIRBs
The 406 MHz EPIRB was designed to operate with satellites. The signal frequency (406 MHz) has been designated internationally for use only for distress. Other communications and interference, such as on 121.5 MHz, is not allowed on this frequency. Its signal allows a satellite local user terminal to accurately locate the EPIRB (much more accurately — 2 to 5 km vice 25 km — than 121.5/243 MHz devices), and identify the vessel (the signal is encoded with the vessel’s identity) anywhere in the world (there is no range limitation). These devices are detectable not only by COSPAS-SARSAT satellites which are polar orbiting, but also by geostationary GOES weather satellites. EPIRBs detected by the GEOSTAR system, consisting of GOES and other geostationary satellites, send rescue authorities an instant alert, but without location information unless the EPIRB is equipped with an integral GPS receiver.  EPIRBs detected by COSPAS-SARSAT (e.g. TIROS N) satellites provide rescue authorities location of distress, but location and sometimes alerting may be delayed as much as an hour or two. These EPIRBs also include a 121.5 MHz homing signal, allowing aircraft and rescue craft to quickly find the vessel in distress. These are the only type of EPIRB which must be certified by Coast Guard approved independent laboratories before they can be sold in the United States.

A new type of 406 MHz EPIRB, having an integral GPS navigation receiver, became available in 1998.  This EPIRB will send accurate location as well as identification information to rescue authorities immediately upon activation through both geostationary (GEOSAR) and polar orbiting satellites.  These types of EPIRB are the best you can buy.

406 MHz emergency locating transmitters (ELTs) for aircraft are currently available. 406 MHz personnel locating beacons (PLBs) are available.

The Coast Guard recommends you purchase a 406 MHz EPIRB, preferably one with an integral GPS navigation receiver. A Cat I EPIRB should be purchased if it can be installed properly.

406 MHz GEOSAR System
The major advantage of the 406 MHz low earth orbit system is the provision of global Earth coverage using a limited number of polar-orbiting satellite.  Coverage is not continuous, however, and it may take up to a couple of hours for an EPIRB alert to be received.  To overcome this limitation, COSPAS-SARSAT has 406 MHz EPIRB repeaters aboard three geostationary satellites, plus one spare: GOES-W, at 135 deg W; GOES-E, at 75 deg W; INSAT-2A, at 74 deg E; and INSAT-2B (in-orbit spare), at 93.5 deg E.  Ground stations capable of receiving 406 MHz.  Except for areas between the United Kingdom and Norway, south of the east coast of Australia, and the area surrounding the Sea of Okhotsk near Russia, as well as polar areas, GEOSAR provides continuous global coverage of distress alerts from 406 MHz EPIRBs.

Note that GEOSAR cannot detect 121.5 MHz alerts, nor can it route unregistered 406 MHz alerts to a rescue authority.  GEOSAR cannot calculate the location of any alert it receives, unless the beacon has an integral GPS receiver.

The COSPAS-SARSAT System
COSPAS-SARSAT is an international satellite-based search and rescue system established by the U.S., Russia, Canada and France to locate emergency radio beacons transmitting on the frequencies 121.5, 243 and 406 MHZ.

COSPAS
Space System for Search of Distress Vessels (a Russian acronym)
SARSAT
Search and Rescue Satellite-Aided Tracking

Model Wooden Boats – Featured Ship

Go2marine is proud to carry Modern Old-World Handicrafted wooden model boats. Handicrafted models start with detailed line drawings, then scaled down for hand assembly of quality materials. These models are completely constructed, although they may require some some simple, easy assembly due to shipping with mast (or other features) folded down. From fine sailing tall ships to ocean liners to runabouts, racing yachts and canoes; there is a model to appeal to any marine affectionado.

Drakkar Viking Ship at Go2marine

One of the most popular model at Go2marine is the Drakkar Viking Ship. The Drake or Dragon Boat (Drakkar) is the name of the Scandinavian longboats (the dragon head, usually the ornament of the bow), sailing between 800 AD – 1050 AD. Made of oak boards laid up in clinker design.

Nothing is as symbolic of the Vikings as the longship or drakkar. Also called a dragon ship by its enemies, the drakkar was really a warship designed to carry fearless Viking warriors on their raids across Europe.

Today we have a quite clear impression of what a viking ship really is. But the vikings themselves never used the term “viking ship” about their ships. “Viking ship” is a modern term used about a whole group of different ship classes which were used in Scandinavia in the viking age (800 AD – 1050 AD) and in the next couple of centuries. We often associate the term with elegant longships with dragonheads and upright sterns and stems, and a rig with a broad square sail. Actually only a few ships were equipped with dragonheads, as they should mark the status and rank of the viking kings. The majority of the ships were more modestly decorated, optimized for sailing abilities, strength, speed and cargo capacity needed for the purpose.

Discovery of the New World

The first Europeans – the Norse, were the first foreigners to set foot in Newfoundland. Beginning in the eighth century, they burst out of their cultural homeland in Scandinavia (particularly Norway). Yet the Norse who came to Newfoundland and Labrador (in present day Canada) were not fierce raiders in search of pillage and plunder. The Norse appearance here was the final step in a relatively peaceful expansion of livestock farmers across the North Atlantic, taking in parts of the British Isles, Iceland (860 AD), Greenland (982 AD), and finally Vinland (986 AD). There is proof of a Norse habitation at L’Anse aux Meadows, in Newfoundland.

The average length of a longship was 80 feet. The largest ever excavated was over 220 feet long. Its sixty oarsmen could swiftly deliver as many as four hundred warriors to a battlefield along the coast or well inland via a river. Like most large drakkars, They were owned by a powerful king. In the last days of the Viking Age, three hundred of these longships were in the Viking fleet.

Vikings ships were rarely at the mercy of their enemies. The ships were more maneuverable, better equipped and superiorly built. They could navigate in water less than a three feet deep. In shallow water, the warriors would move to one side of the ship to tilt it so it would pass over rocks and shoals. The longships’ tapered bows and sterns enabled the Vikings to row the ships forwards and backwards without first having to turn the ships around.

The deck of a longship was completely planked over. There were no sleeping quarters below deck. Crewmen and warriors stored their personal belongings in chests on the deck. The oarsmen sat on these chests when rowing.

For more on the history of the Viking Drakkars, their explorations and lifestyle, search the internet.

Sod building replicas at L'Anse aux Meadows

Sod building replicas at L’Anse aux Meadows.

Full-scale replicas of three buildings called A, B, and C. The replicas were built a short distance away from the actual ruins in order to protect the original remains.

Lighthouse Windlass – Commercial Strength for the Recreational Boater

Lighthouse windlasses are built for the recreational boating market BUT their design is rugged like a commercial vessel windlass. Go2marine is a proud supplier of this industrial strength marine windlass. They are available in 12-32 volt electric power options as well as hydraulically powered. A windlass is not only necessary for lifting the heavy ground tackle during anchoring, it is useful in kedging your vessel. All windlasses should have a manual backup in case of a power supply failure.

Lighthouse Windlasses at Go2marine

Lighthouse Anchor Windlasses, made in the USA, feature stainless steel construction; won’t corrode away like aluminum winches or rust like steel units. No chrome plating to peel off like others made of brass. The only winch with 3 manual back-ups. Can be tailed just like any sheet winch. Has rapid manual rewind with use of a standard or ratcheting winch handle in capstan end.

A second winch handle socket on top of the winch is provided for kedging and allows a maximum pull manually through a 60:1 gear ratio. This means if only 35 lbs. of pressure is exerted on a standard 10″ winch handle in kedging socket, a potential of 10,500 lbs. Is available at the capstan. For example; 35 lbs. X 10″ = 350 lbs., 350 lbs. X 60 (gear ratio)= 21,000 lbs., divide 21,000 lbs. By the radius of the capstan (2″)=10,500 lbs. On most boats, this could be the most powerful device for winching available.

Lighthouse Windlass Cutaway

Lighthouse windlasses are are rated at continuous duty, not maximum pull as with most other winch manufacturers. Optional reversing is available without changing motors, and can be added at anytime. When powering out chain, it can not pull chain out of the locker, therefore cannot damage the deck, hawser pipes or winch. It only allows chain to fall at a controlled speed. The only winch to use urethane clutch materials. This will allow gradual take up of friction plates and can provide controlled slip rates, unlike others that are either on or off. Clutches should last indefinitely and are impervious to salt water and are protected from sunlight. Installation of the Lighthouse windlass is the simplest of any on the market, as told to us by riggers and owners alike.

Motor extension housings up to 48″ are available from the factory. No other winch fits the bill for sail vessels due to its low profile (4″ lower than comparable verticals). The lighthouse windlass fits a variety of sail and power vessels. The Lighthouse windlass does not require deck blocking like most vertical winches. Therefore the Lighthouse windlass is not subject to failure, due to overhung, unsupported loads associated with vertical winches.

The Lighthouse windlass can be mounted flat to the deck in most cases and does not require the spacers and pads usually required for aligning vertical winches to the bow rollers.

Lighthouse w/ twin wildcat's & capstan's

Go2marine supplies Lighthouse and other windlass manufactures windlasses to the recreational and commercial boating market. For our complete line of windlasses, windlass accessories and other marine boating parts, visit Go2marine.

Weems & Plath Nautical Instruments

Known worldwide since 1928 for their precision nautical instruments, Weems & Plath has been supplying the world with quality navigation tools. Whether for boat, home or office, these beautiful, handcrafted and accurate instruments make the perfect addition for navigation or décor.A welcome gift for any occasion.

Free Gill Wet & Dry Bag at Go2marine

Now through December 29, receive a FREE Gill 10L Wet & Dry Cylinder Bag with any purchase of $150 or more of Gill at Go2marine.

Gill is the true enthusiast’s brand, passionate about the boating life style and sport. Known worldwide for their innovative apparel and sailing gear, they support sailing throughout the world with their sponsorships of sailing at every level.

 

 

Go2marine Partners with SeaChoice Marine Products

Go2marine now carries a wide variety of SeaChoice Boating Products. From powerboat steering wheels, to anchors and chains, SeaChoice products competitively priced amongst similar popular brands. Plus, SeaChoice backs their workmanship by a one year manufacturers warranty.

Check out some featured SeaChoice marine products at Go2marine.com:

SeaChoice Wheel

SeaChoice Stainless Steel Poweboat Steering Wheels are comprised of 304 Stainless Steel, offer a comfortable grip, and come in standard 13-1/2 and 15-1/2 inch diameters. These wheels can be shipped worldwide.

Claw Anchor

Find competitively priced SeaChoice Plow, Claw, and Mushroom Anchors at Go2marine. SeaChoice plow and claw anchors are hot-dipped galvanized and the mushroom anchors are made of heavy cast iron. Anchor chain and line is also available from SeaChoice.

SeaChoice products are a great choice for boaters on a limited budget. Visit Go2marine to view the entire SeaChoice product line.