Nautical Term: Bilge plates
Definition of Bilge plates
Bilge plates are custom-made, curved shell plates that fit snugly against the bilge, or the inner side of the hull, in a boat or a ship. By covering the bilge area, bilge plates help to prevent water from accumulating in the bilge, thereby reducing the risk of flooding and sinking.
For instance, during a heavy rainstorm at sea, water may enter the boat through various openings such as hatches, portholes, or scupper holes. In an attempt to keep the water out, the crew may close all the hatches and portholes, but water may still find its way into the bilge area through the scupper holes or other means. In such a situation, having bilge plates installed in the boat can help to prevent water from accumulating in the bilge, thereby reducing the risk of flooding and sinking.
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