Nautical Term: Groundways
Definition of Groundways
Groundways refer to large timber pieces laid transversely on the ways where the keel blocks are situated. In addition to the timber, there are also large blocks and plans that support the cradle on which a ship is launched.
For instance, during the construction of a new ship, the groundways play a crucial role in the shipbuilding process. Once the keel block is placed on the groundways, the shipbuilders can begin attaching the frames, planking, and other components of the ship to the keel block. Once the ship is fully constructed, it is then moved to the launching ways, where the groundways are again used to support the cradle and the ship as it is launched into the water.
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