Hydropool has long been a world leader in aquatic recreation. Since its inception in 1970, it has provided the world with high-quality swimming pools, hot tubs and swim spas. The company now sells through retail partners in more than 50 countries. So, what has made Hydropool such a successful company? Focus on design, reliability and innovation has made the Hydropool brand one of the most trusted in the aquatic recreation industry. To find out how Hydropool swim spa is made, check out this post.
The Strength of Acrylic
Acrylic, also known as polymethyl methacrylate, is a strong, durable material that may be better known by its commercial names of Plexiglass or Perspex. This synthetic polymer can be clear, translucent or imbued with a variety of colors and designs which allows it to be used for a wide range of purposes. It can be heated and molded while still retaining a strong, waterproof surface. This is what makes acrylic an ideal material for swim spa shells.
Thermoforming
Swim spa shells are created by a process known as thermoforming. A sheet of acrylic is heated until it becomes pliable before it’s laid over a vacuum mold which mirrors the shape of a swim spa shell. When the vacuum is created, the acrylic is pulled down over the mold to replicate all the features of the shell. Once the acrylic cools, it’s removed from the mold. What was once a flat sheet of acrylic now looks like the inner shell of a swim spa.
Added Strength
The weight and force created by thousands of gallons of water are tremendous. To ensure the acrylic shell can withstand that kind of pressure, it’s coated with layers of fiberglass and vinyl resin. This gives the acrylic the additional strength needed to hold a large amount of water.
Insulation
In some ways, swim spas are more like hot tubs than they are swimming pools. The fact that a swim spa can be used in freezing cold weather is one of those similarities. A lot of this has to do with the insulative coating that’s sprayed over the fiberglass and resin shell backing. The insulation helps the shell retain heat and allows the swim spa to be used in cold winter weather without freezing over.
Trim and Cut
With the shell now complete, its edges are trimmed into shape and buffed smooth. Holes are drilled through the shell where the water jets and other plumbing components will be inserted.
Plumbing and Piping
The water jets are set into place and the edges sealed to ensure they’re waterproof. Piping, which will facilitate the flow of air through the water jets, is attached to the back of each jet housing. Plumbing to facilitate the movement of water, is connected to the corresponding areas of the shell and sealed into place. Each swim spa uses between 80 and 100 feet of piping depending on the model and size.
Mechanical Components
After the plumbing and piping are installed, the mechanical components are installed. Water pumps, the water heater, the water filtration system, the control console and electrical wiring are all connected. If the swim spa has accessories such as mood lighting, speaker systems or other electronics, these are all installed now as well.
Water Testing
To ensure the swim spa works as it’s supposed to when it’s received by the customer, its “wet tested” for six to eight hours. The various settings and programs are used and inspected, and the shell is monitored for leaks or other problems. Once the tests are satisfactorily completed, the cabinet that contains the shell and the various components is finally assembled to provide a sleek, clean look.
To learn more about how Hydropool swim spas are made, download a free guide.