Nautical Term: Battens, cargo
Definition of Battens, cargo
Battens, cargo, refers to the strips of material, typically wood or steel, that are installed in the holds of ships to keep the cargo away from the shell plating. The battens serve the crucial function of preventing the cargo from shifting or damaging the plating, ensuring the structural integrity of the ship.
For instance, imagine a cargo hold filled with bags of grain. Without the use of battens, the weight of the cargo could cause it to shift, resulting in damage to the plating or even compromising the structural stability of the ship. However, by installing battens in the hold, the cargo is effectively secured, preventing any shifting or damage, ensuring the safe transportation of the cargo and the preservation of the ship’s structural integrity.
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