Nautical Term: Wing tanks

Definition of Wing tanks

Wing tanks refer to fuel storage compartments located outboard and typically just under the weather deck. These tanks can be formed by installing a longitudinal bulkhead between the two uppermost decks or by working a diagonal, longitudinal flat between the ship’s side and the weather deck. An example of how wing tanks might be used is in the design of a container ship. By utilizing wing tanks, the ship can carry a larger volume of fuel while still maintaining an efficient center of gravity.

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