Nautical Term: Side keelson
Definition of Side keelson
A horizontal beam, referred to as a side keelson, is positioned on the outer side of the hull, approximately two-thirds of the way from the centerline to the bilgeway. This side keelson functions as a longitudinal stiffener for the flat bottom of a vessel, enhancing its structural integrity.
For instance, consider a traditional wooden fishing boat. As the vessel carries a heavy load of catch, the pressure on the flat bottom could potentially cause it to flex or even crack. In this scenario, a side keelson, as described above, would be installed on the outer side of the hull to act as a longitudinal stiffener for the flat bottom, thus enhancing the boat’s structural integrity and ensuring its ability to withstand the heavy loads it carries.
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