Nautical Term: Kentledge

Definition of Kentledge

Kentledge refers to pig iron that serves a dual purpose in the context of maritime operations. Initially, it may be utilized as temporary weight, assisting in the process of inclining a vessel. Following this, the same pig iron may be used as permanent ballast, contributing to the overall stability of the ship.

For instance, during the construction of a wooden ship in the 18th century, it was necessary to check its structural integrity by making it lean slightly at the keel. In order to accomplish this, they would install the pig iron as Kentledge to counterbalance the forces involved in inclining the vessel.

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