Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming a product, and the product, such as a buoy with a plastic outer skin or shell and a plastic foam interior are provided. A first charge including, in one exemplary embodiment, a cross-linkable resin is added to a mold component, followed by a second charge, isolated from the first, and including in the exemplary embodiment expandable polystyrene beads. The apparatus is rotated about two mutually perpendicular axes. Initially, the cross-linkable composition is rotation molded against the walls of the mold to form the outer shell. Thereafter, the second charge of polystyrene beads is released within the mold, at a sufficient temperature to cause expansion of said beads against the shell.

Abstract: A replaceable inflation valve for a marine fender wherein, in one embodiment, the valve is slidably received in a valve seat formed in the fender, and wherein a bored collar is threadably received in the valve seat to hold a flexible member of the valve in place in the fender. The upper portion of the flexible member of the valve is received within the bore formed in the collar to provide access to the flexible member of the valve when the collar is in place. The flexible member of the valve comprises an elongated tubular member with one open end and one normally closed end. The normally closed end is openable by insertion of a needle valve through a slit therein. Upon removal of the needle valve, the slit closes on itself by reason of the inherent resiliency of the flexible member.