Fountaine Pajot Motor Yachts
Fountaine Pajot Motor Yachts technology
All Fountaine Pajot Motor Yachts are built from a sandwich structure with a core of PVC foam laminated under vacuum. Fountaine Pajot have been masters of this technology for 30 years. Outer skins are made of a laminate of fibreglass fabrics and powder binder mats applied by hand with an isophtalic polyester resin.
The core of the sandwich is satisfied under vacuum leaving cross-linking at regular intervals between the two skins to ensure proper adhesion. To guarantee the protection of our boats against hydrolysis, for hulls and decks, they use only isophtalic gel-coats applied extremely evenly by spray-gun. Like every other phase in manufacture, the quality of their application is strictly controlled.
Custom-made fabrics:
Fountaine Pajot Motor Yachts in collaboration with their supplier of fibreglass fabrics, Chomarat, have designed their own fabrics with mono and multi-directional fibres in different weights in order to optimise the weight and structure of the boat.
In accordance with the quality control process, for every model, an exact sample of each fabric allocated to specific zones in the vessel is prepared on a trolley and recorded.
The choice and composition of fabrics differs according to the zone orientation of the fibres takes into account the mechanical stresses. For zones subject to lower stresses, lighter fabrics are employed than for zones subject to higher stresses such as the structural partitions or the external girding in both, the forward beam end fittings and chain plates. In this way, we optimise fabric weights with respect to the stresses distributed throughout the boat.
Infusion process:
Infusion was a crucial option adopted by the Fountaine Pajot shipyard. The entire structure of the boat is built up in layers of dry-bonded fabric. Under vacuum, the resin is able to penetrate into every empty space in a single operation.
The advantages of this process are numerous, even if in the final analysis a traditional composite can result in a vessel of identical quality.
- Protection of the environment and anticipation of new regulations relating to solvents;
- Improved working conditions;
- Even if the investment in tooling, research and development and “engineer -hours” is considerable, we achieve gains in productivity enabling us to keep to the rate of production of one vessel per series per week.
- All this not only in conformity with specification, but also with the standards of quality and quality control required for every vessel.
- There is a perceptible saving in weight relative to manual impregnation techniques resulting in better sailing performance.
Over 30 years of experience and technological development:
Fountaine Pajot was a 
pioneer in the manufacture of composite cruising catamarans. After developing and perfecting sandwich construction technology, the company implemented two new technological procedures: RTM Eco and Infusion. RTM ECO – A new hi-tech process:
Infusion: the smart choice
This new technology is the result of several years of
state-of-the-art research to advance manufacturing techniques and improve working conditions. The whole structure of the boat is coated with different layers of dry-glued material. Resin easily fills the gaps in one go.
The advantages of this approach are:
- a perfectly homogenous composite
- protection from the environment and consideration of future changes in legislation
- governing solvents
- better working conditions
- reduced weight compared with manual injection.
Checks at each stage of the Manufacturing process and certification for the whole company:
Construction of a Fountaine Pajot Motor Yacht includes checks at each 
stage of the manufacturing process in line with ISO 9001 V2000.
The strength of the composite is measured on each part after removal from the mould using the Barcol process, and a heat test is then used on samples of each boat to check gelcoats’ and laminates’ resistance to hydrolysis. Resistance of deck and panel glue to wear and tear and bad weather is also tested.
Once complete, the boat is placed in the workshop pool for tests and checks. All equipment is tested and a system of soaking ensures the unit is completely watertight.
In anticipation of future developments, the boatyard’s technical department keeps an extensive file on each vessel; it references all materials and products used as well as all equipment installed. The exact position of certain specific items is also archived along with composite samples.
There is complete traceability for each unit leaving the workshop, an essential aid to future maintenance. Perfectly equipped and tested, Fountaine Pajot Motor Yachts are then ready to sail. Once in the water, they take to the sea to join their new home. Many cross the Atlantic or even the Pacific, guaranteed to be reliable and seaworthy.
Certifications
Quality control:
- During manufacture team leaders carry out informal checks throughout production;
- At the end of the composite manufacture, the quality control department carries out aesthetic and structural checks, etc;
- After assembly, the quality control department carries out checks on the completed vessel (aesthetic and functional)’
- Before delivery/use.
Final tests:
- seals
- plumbing
- wiring
- engines
- refrigeration units
- equipment
Reliability and experience:
A robust, stable company. When you buy a boat, you want to know that the constructor is reliable and financially sound.
The Fountaine Pajot boatyard was founded more than 30 years ago in 1976, and is still led by the same team. The company is now listed on the Alternex market of the EURONEXT NYSE. This requires financial transparency that is scrutinised by the supervisory authorities. Shareholders’ equity doubled in 2007 to reach €14 million.
Strong brand awareness and an international network:
Fountaine Pajot is the only boatyard in the world to offer two broad ranges of catamaran with excellent resale value. Its international distribution network, which includes VOLVO PENTA, guarantees excellent customer service and reliable supply outlets. With unrivalled experience to date, Fountaine Pajot has built 2050 cruising catamarans that cruise the world.
