BILGE KEEL Meaning and
Definition
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A bilge keel refers to a structural element in ship design, commonly found on the underside of a vessel's hull. It is a long, narrow plate or fin that extends laterally from the ship's bilge area, which is the curve of the hull where the vertical sides transition into the bottom. The bilge keel is usually symmetrical, meaning it has the same shape on both sides of the ship.
The primary function of a bilge keel is to enhance the ship's stability and reduce rolling motion in rough seas. By increasing the lateral surface area of the ship's hull, the keel helps to counterbalance the forces generated by wind and waves, thereby reducing the vessel's tendency to roll from side to side. This is particularly important in large ships and ocean liners, where excessive rolling can cause discomfort to passengers and increase the risk of damage or capsizing.
Bilge keels are typically made of steel, and their placement varies depending on the ship's design. They are strategically positioned to optimize their stabilizing effect while minimizing the additional drag they create. The size, shape, and number of bilge keels can also vary based on the specific requirements and intended use of the ship.
Overall, bilge keels play a crucial role in maintaining ship stability and improving seakeeping qualities, ultimately contributing to the safety, comfort, and maneuverability of a vessel when navigating through challenging marine environments.
Common Misspellings for BILGE KEEL
- vilge keel
- nilge keel
- hilge keel
- gilge keel
- bulge keel
- bjlge keel
- bklge keel
- bolge keel
- b9lge keel
- b8lge keel
- bikge keel
- bipge keel
- bioge keel
- bilfe keel
- bilve keel
- bilbe keel
- bilhe keel
- bilye keel
- bilte keel
Etymology of BILGE KEEL
The word "bilge keel" is composed of two elements: "bilge" and "keel".
1. Bilge comes from the Middle English word "bylg", which originated from the Old Norse word "bȳlgja". The term referred to the swell or curve of a ship's bottom or its general roundness. Over time, the meaning of "bilge" evolved to denote the lowest part of a ship's interior, where water might collect and need to be pumped out.
2. Keel originated from the Old Norse word "kjǫlr" or "kiǫlr", which meant the central longitudinal beam or timber of a ship. This beam ran from the bow (front) to the stern (rear) and provided stability and strength to the vessel.
Similar spelling words for BILGE KEEL
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