The Adhesive Valve Bladder System and full replacement bladders serve different technical purposes. While both are used to restore inflatable kites and wings, they are not interchangeable solutions. Understanding their intended use and limitations is essential to avoid repeated failures or unnecessary costs.
The Adhesive Valve Bladder System is often also referred to as a stick on valve or adhesive valve repair solution. These terms describe the same principle of bonding valves to the bladder using an adhesive base instead of welding.
WHAT THE ADHESIVE VALVE BLADDER SYSTEM IS DESIGNED FOR
The Adhesive Valve Bladder System is a modular repair and replacement solution based on pre fabricated bladder blanks without valves. The bladder blanks are fully welded and airtight, but intentionally produced without any welded valves.
To complete the setup, the customer selects correct number and type of valves that match the original valve types and positions of their kite or wing. These valves are then bonded to the bladder blank, allowing the valve layout to be recreated without welding.
The bladder blank must be selected in a suitable size, typically equal to or longer than the original bladder. Several bladder blanks are available for leading edge and strut applications, each offered in multiple lengths to accommodate different models.
This system relies on correct valve positioning and proper installation by the user. It is intended for cases where the original bladder is damaged or missing, but where the user prefers a flexible solution that allows valve selection and placement to match the original configuration.
You may also see this type of solution referred to as stick on valve systems, adhesive valve bladder solutions, or stick on valve repairs. These terms describe the same technical approach of combining a valve free bladder blank with adhesive based valve installation.
WHAT REPLACEMENT BLADDERS ARE DESIGNED FOR
Replacement bladders are complete, ready to install solutions manufactured by Dr.Tuba according to technical specifications and bladder plans provided by the original brands. They are not original factory bladders, but are produced to match the required dimensions, valve layout, and functional design of the specific kite or wing model.
Dr.Tuba replacement bladders are manufactured from high quality TPU films produced in Germany and are assembled with pre welded valves according to the original bladder specifications. This ensures strong and consistent valve bonds, accurate valve positioning, and eliminates the need for any valve installation or positioning by the customer.
Replacement bladders are designed to provide a reliable and repeatable result, particularly when the original bladder is damaged, missing, or when a user prefers a fully assembled solution with valves already installed in the correct positions.
For older kites or wings, replacing all bladders at once is often the most reliable option, as it avoids repeated repairs and provides consistent pressure behaviour and performance across all sections.
WHICH SOLUTION SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?
General guideline:
- Use the Adhesive Valve Bladder System when you need highly tunable valve and bladder solution, for instance for multiple kites or to have some parts ready if you're travelling.
- Choose replacement bladders when the bladder shows signs of ageing, multiple leaks, deformation, or repeated valve failures.
- This decision is technical rather than cost based. In many cases, replacing the bladder once is more reliable and economical than performing multiple repairs over time.
Adhesive Valve Bladder System
This option is designed for users who want a flexible, modular solution based on a valve free bladder blank. The system consists of a pre welded bladder blank without valves, combined with adhesive, stick on valves that are installed by the user to match the original valve layout.
It allows the same bladder blank to be adapted to different kites or wings by selecting the correct valve types and positioning them manually. This makes it a practical solution for travel, DIY repairs, or situations where an exact replacement bladder is not available.
The bladder blank must be selected in a suitable length, typically equal to or longer than the original bladder, and the valve positions must be recreated carefully to match the original configuration.
Replacement Bladders
Replacement bladders are fully assembled, ready to install solutions manufactured by Dr.Tuba according to brand provided bladder plans and specifications. They are produced with pre welded valves already installed in the correct positions.
No valve installation or positioning is required by the customer. The bladder is installed directly into the kite or wing, similar to the original bladder, ensuring consistent valve alignment and predictable performance.
In most cases, a replacement bladder is the easiest and most reliable solution, as it eliminates additional assembly steps and reduces the risk of installation errors. This option is intended for users who want a straightforward, repeatable result with minimal setup time.
Perfect solution for travellers
One bladder blank can be adapted to multiple kites or wings by selecting and positioning adhesive valves as needed. This reduces the number of spare bladders required during travel.
You mount adhesive valves
Valve types and positions are selected and installed by the user to match the original bladder layout.
Strong adhesives
Adhesive valves are bonded to the bladder blank using pressure sensitive, UV stable, elastic adhesives designed for inflatable applications (Tear Aid Type A).
Fully assembled
All valves are pre welded according to the bladder specifications, ensuring consistent valve bonding and correct positioning.
Ready to install
Replacement bladders are installed directly into the kite or wing without additional valve work.
Full Quality Control
Each replacement bladder undergoes pressure testing and overnight quality control to ensure airtightness before shipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an adhesive valve the same as a stick on valve?
Yes. Adhesive valve, stick on valve, and glue on valve are commonly used terms describing valves bonded to the bladder using an adhesive base instead of welding.
Is the Adhesive Valve Bladder System a permanent solution?
It is a durable repair solution when used on a bladder that is still in good overall condition. It cannot reverse material ageing or general bladder degradation.
Why does Dr.Tuba often recommend replacement bladders for older kites and wings?
Older bladders frequently suffer from hidden material fatigue and multiple weak points. Replacing all bladders avoids repeated failures and provides long term reliability.