Nautical Term: Intercostals
Definition of Intercostals
Intercostals, in the context of nautical engineering, refer to the series of plates or ribs that are fitted between the floors of a ship. This rigid arrangement of intercostals helps to stiffen the double bottom of a vessel, thereby enhancing its overall structural integrity.
Intercostals derive their name from the Latin words inter, which means between, and costa, which signifies a rib. Thus, intercostals essentially refer to the structural ribs or plates that are inserted between the floors of a ship to reinforce its double bottom.
For example: During the renovation of an old sailing ship, the intercostals of the double bottom were found to be damaged and in need of replacement. The ship’s naval architect prescribed a series of new intercostals made of high-strength steel. These replacement intercostals were then installed between the floors of the double bottom, restoring the ship’s structural integrity and ensuring its continued seaworthiness.
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