311
:97
VM
51/
C91
BOUGHT WITH THE INCOME
PROM THE
SAGE ENDOWMENT FUND
THE GIFT OF
iletirg W. Sage
189X
fj...^.3..fj.3...^ Jj.S^'^Uf...
3513-1
V
VM311 .cl™" """"ral'y Library
'll«IMlllllffillilimiiffiW.?.,Sr„*tee' Ship con
i
olin
3 1924 030 902 021
should
library
iatebhows when this volume was taken.
'o^^w this book copy the call, No. and give to
%he librarian. ^
HOME USE RULES.
All Books subject to ilecall.
Books not used for
instruction or research
are returnable within
4 -weeks.
Volumes^pf periodi-j
' cals an.d'ofy* " ■"-■""
are held in I
as much- a'sji
For special ■
they are giy
a limited time;
Borrowers
^' not use their
privileges for the bene-
fit of other persons. « .
: Books not needed
during recess periods
should be returned to
the library, or arrange-
ments' made fori their ,
" return (Quiring borrow' •
, , er'sabsence.if wanted.
■ . \, Bopks needed by
' ; more than one person
are held on the reserve
list. ', /
-Books of Special
value and gift bo<3ks,
when the giver wishes
. it, are not allowed to
circulate.
Readers are asked
^ to report all caSesof
books marked or niiiti-
,. , lated.
Do not deface books by m^rks and writing.
Cornell University
Library
The original of tiiis book is in
tine Cornell University Library.
There are no known copyright restrictions in
the United States on the use of the text.
http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924030902021
Lake Ship Yard Methods of
Steel Ship Construction
BY
ROBERT CURR
CLEVELAND
THE MARINE REVIEW
1907
Copyright, 1907
By the Penton Publishing Co.
Published, October, 1907.
PREFACE.
On June 31, 1906, a vessel, the J. Q. Riddle, was launched at Lo-
rain, Ohio, by the American Ship Building Co., which was built and
launched in forty-five working days. This vessel is of the latest and
most up-to-date type of freight carrier for service on the great lakes.
She is 552 ft. total length, 532 ft. on the keel, 56 ft. wide and 31 ft.
deep.
The average output for the punch shop for each day was 80 tons
of 2,000 pounds.
The following chapters will show the lake methods of doing this
work, tlie means of accomplishing which may be of interest to those
connected with ship building in this country.
MR. W. I. BABCOCK
Author of the Mold System on the Great Lakes
Lake Ship Yard Methods Of
Steel Ship Construction
CHAPTER I
LAYING OFF
Laying off on the mold loft floor is similar in process on the lakes
as anywhere else and as there are several works on laying off which
can be secured through the Marine Review, I shall not say much
about the same, except what is necessary in describing the process of
laying out the work for the punch shop. I may say here that all the
material is ordered from the plans in the office of the American Ship
Building Co., and the material is all in the ship yard before the plans
are furnished. This gives the loftsman more work, for the working
in of the material depends upon him. This can 6nly be appreciated
and understood by those who have had experience in laying off and
"have had to deal with the material when ordered from the office. This
refers particularly to the shell plating. The American Ship Building
■Co. has an easy and economical method of handling the material com-
ing into the yard. Traveling cranes over the machinery in the punch
shop extend to the railroad track where the cars arrive. The material
is taken from the cars and piled on edge without very many men being
needed. The plates are marked on the edge so that when the marker
■desires a certain plate he can see the marks on the plate edges without
having to turn same over.
In Scotland the plates and shapes are taken from the cars and piled
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
up so that the marker can lay off his work suitable to the system of
doing the work there. This work is done, as a rule, on piece work,
the men getting 25 cents per ton for taking the material from the cars
and laying it out in proper order so that the platers can get the plates
or shapes they require first. The vessels are built the same way all
the time so that the man in charge, of the material knows just what
plate will be used first. The clerk in charge is usually a plater and is
acquainted with the routine in doing work. The material when laid
out is left to the platers who take it to the punch shop and put it
through the processes until it is in place on the ship. Ship yards
which do not have cranes for handling the stock rriaterial, lay the
plates on top of each other, on their flat, so that all plates of the same
size are put together. The marker puts a wedge under the plate with
the use of a pinch bar, raising the plate just enough to get the clip on
the template. The plate is marked without the use of helpers until the
punch squad removes the plate to the punch. The same method is
practiced until all the plates are marked in the pile.
Almost without exception in this country, the marker has the plate
or angle put up for him on benches and all he has to do is to clean the
dust off the plate and mark same. The overhead crane in the Amer-
ican Ship Building Co.'s shop facilitates this work and as the sorting
out of the material and taking of same into the punch shop to be
marked costs less than half of the Scotch laying out, there is no use of
discussing same. The American methods in this particular section are
in favor of the hofne system.
The loftsman receives the offsets similar to other ship yards here
and abroad, with the exception that the material is all ordered and
care must be taken to see that it fits on the vessel which can always be
detected before the mold is made. After the midship section is deter-
mined on the floor, a mold is made for the frame bender, which al-
lows him to have a start ahead of the loftsman of about two weeks.
Before the vessel is finished the frame bending as a rule is not very
much ahead.
Fig. 1 shows a midship section of the vessel under discussion. The
lake method is to make a mold for each piece, viz., channel frame
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
channel floor, tank top angle, tank side channel, center keelson bracket,
bilge bracket, girder bars and brackets, clips, tank side channel brace,
top plate on tank side, center keelson vertical angles, beams, beam
brkckets and beam clips. The above is what composes the main
frame.
The holes are all drilled in the molds for the component parts
which constitute the frame.
Shell holes have to be taken care of on the frame flange to the
shell, also on the floor. Molds are made for this purpose.
Fig. 1. is plan of the belt frame, spaced 12 ft. apart. The process
is similar to the main frame, molds being made for the plates and anr
gles.
Eighty-five per cent of the framing is laid off with these molds,
then a mold is made for each frame forward and aft of midships.
A number of frames and plates are worked from the full molds by
drawing same in at the bilge below or extending in the same way
(where the sheer increases) above bilge.
In Scotland the frame and its parts are laid down on a platform,
which is termed the Scrieve board. The same care is not taken there
in getting out the small pieces, such as stringer cl^ps, girder stiffeners
and beam knees which are put in after the vessel is ribbanded, which
will be explained later.
Figs. 1 and 2 show just how the pieces would be laid out on the
board and all the pieces marked in and punched. Fig. 1 : the pieces
would be laid down as shown, the main frame being placed with the
web up and the floor on top, which would allow all the pieces to be
laid down on the board. The pieces on top would be punched and the
under pieces marked for same. The web frame. Fig. 2, would be
easier to lay down on a flat surface because the plates would.be put
down as shown on plan, the excessive material be sheared off to the
angles which are punched and laid on the plates. The Scrieve board
is quite a factor in the British method of framing ships. It is com-
posed of a pine platform planed smooth and painted black with lamp
black. The lines of the body plan are transferred from the mold loft
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF'
and scratched in on this platform so that the various lines may not be
rubbed out by pulling the steel plates and shapes across them.
The Scrieve board practically begins the construction of steel ships
in Scotland.
After the Scrieve board is finished and all the lines representing
MARINE REVIEW
Fig. 1.
Figs. 1 and 2 are scratched in and painted with different colors of
paint, the framing squad takes possession of the board. Long strips
of pine 1 in. by J4 in. are bent around the frame lines and the plate
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
edges marked on same or any parts which may be doubtful to punch
before the frame angle is bent. The frame angle will stretch in bend-
ing so that is provided for when the batten is laid around the frame
line on the Scrieve board. The lower part of the batten is drawn over
the center line the amount necessary. This batten is laid on the frame
/-IxlxlLSl* 1?^
TankTopPIatineSOli
Int. SUffenei-Br'k'ta
Flanged to Longl.
m ■
; 12 Ft.Center3
j^ "" Bi* 15 high floors
'€?) to I
5"lt 4x16.2"* 5i"> ,. „,.. „
1— _o.-^l.Q. a. jiJiiQ. Q 0-fCL_-a
40x37.5* ii-ForJilj. arfor/JL. 25 f or J^ L.
'^' LinerSxll^ to SD.'^at eods to2(rlteDds to 20 at ends
S5 t-or %U
'^17.5^t ends
25 f ot J< L.
to 17.5 at ends
rO m^^ /so^Pkl.
:^ TfNj ^'^ to 20 at ends
* E
so tor ^L.
to 20 at ends
MARINE REVIEW
Fig. 2.
angle and all the shell laps marked on which are left blank until the
plate lines are faired up on the ship. The holes between the plate
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
laps on the frame angle are marked, also the holes for the inner flange,
care being taken that the holes will not come foul of stringers or
opposite each other.
In order to get the shape of the frame angles, or channels, a set is
made of iron lj4 in. by ^ in. and bent to the curve on the Scrieve
board. The set is always made to the inside edge of the frame and
fastened down to the bending slab and the hot angle wound around
same, which makes fairer work and does not leave pin marks on the
inside of the flange. When channels have to be bent heavy pieces of
set iron three inches square are bent to the bilge shape and the chan-
nel wound round same, thus making fairer work than' simply depend-
ing upon the pins and rings cast for that purpose. Rivet holes are
not punched in the frame angle at the turn of the bilge because the
turning of same elongates the hole; a ^-in. hole before the frame is
bent will change to one inch by J^ in. when bent, or something of that
shape.
The channel frame shown on Fig. No. 1 would not be punched
below the line of tank top. A greater number of frame angles can
be punchea biraight than when set to curve of frame, but as the frame
nas to be taken back to the punch machine for holes which it would
be impossible to get fair, the saving in punching before bending does
not ,seem to be much.
The lake system must have all the frames bent and corrected be-
fore the same is marked from the mold.
Correcting the frame is another item to be considered. Iti frame
bending there is a certain amount of spring when the frame becomes
cool. If a man figures on a frame bar losing say one and one-half
cimes the flange in set when the bar cools off, of course tine heat must
be the same to retain the same spring. If the frame bar does not have
the same heat as figured on the one and one-half times the flange, then
the losing of the curvature will be greater. An allowance is made for
this by giving the frame bar more set when hot, so that when it cools
off the angle will be right to the set. It is rare that the frame bar is
correct when cool after being bent. This is got over by hammering
up the angle until it is correct. There is an objection to the hammer
being used because it leaves hammer marks on the edge of the frame
angles.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
When angle frames are used on the lakes, the loss of set is found
and the allowance made but the -correcting is done at the cold press,
which leaves no marks on the edge of frames.
To talce' the material from the stock yard, set, mark, punch and
erect same on skids ready for bolting up," would cost in Scotland for
Fig. 1, $40 and for Fig. 2, th6 web frame, $70. The first impression
would be that the mold system would cost more than the Scotch, but
it costs only about one-third by the use of molds. It is not likely that
this type of vessel would be built, for ocean traffic, but all the same
any kind of construction can be done cheaper and more uniformly
when tlie vessel is laid off from the mold loft. All the advantages of
this system will be seen in these articles.
CHAPTER II
BULKHEADS
Fig. 3 shows bulkhead with a belt frame. The bulkhead plating
is 12.5 lbs., stiffeners 6 in. x 3i4 in. x 15 lbs., channels and all other
angles 3j^ x 3>^ x 8^ lbs.
The half bulkhead plan is laid down on the mold loft floor and
molds are made for each plate, one mold each for horizontal and
vertical stiffeners.
Two plates are marked from e;ach mold for each bulkhead and all
the stiffeners from one mold for the vertical and one for the horizon-
tal channels.
The frame mold is used for both sides as well as other angles
shown on plan.
Fig. 4 shows watertight division 'of tank. The plating is 15 lbs.,
frame angles 5 in. x 5 in. x 16.2 lbs. and other angles 3j4 x 3j4
X 8.5 lbs.
Molds are made similarly to the belt frame, also for the frames
for the blacksmith work which are made and one-half of same riveted
on to the floor before the frame is erected; the remainder of the
watertight frames are put in as soon as the girders are erected, all
the work around the watertight floors being carefully riveted and
caulked before the same is covered in.
A mold is made for every piece on the bulkhead so that nothing
is templated after the work is erected in place.
In Scotland the tank division, Fig. 4, would be laid down on the
Scrieve board, the plating and frame angle of same marked, punched
and put together, all the other work being done when the longitudinals
are in place and riveted. Fig. 3 : The bulkhead would be built in
the vessel after the tank top and tank side are in place.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
The angle connecting the bulkhead to the tank top and tank side
would be put- on and a template made on the ship to the shape of the
bulkhead.
BULKHEADS KO. 6 8 -life
HORIZONTAL STIFF JSiS -e"X3Va
-vEETrcAr,
PLATJNO- iZ.S" fiC IS'
VERTrca.L £.TIFE"««- l,U<3CtED TO
Xi5 CHNNElvS.
TANK.
yxi
.6--,o'^:
nflHTDoaE. ^
MAB.e eafta.tumJ
Cojcv i
o
o a
The plates would be laid out flat anywhere under cover and
marked to the shape from the template obtained from the vessel.
10
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
The rivet holes for the laps, channels, etc., would be marked from
templates drilled for that purpose, so that when the bulkhead has been
laid out all the parts are punched and erected in place on the vessel.
All smith work is done after the different parts are in place and riv-
eted together.
The bulkhead work including the watertight parts completed in
place ready for riveting, would cost in Scotland one hundred and forty
dollars for each bulkhead.
•WATER Tmr-iT BULKHEADS IN TANK ■"■
•BALLAS'T PIPE 5 SEE TAKK TOP PLAN.
F/c. 4
On the lakes with the mold system the cost would be 25 per cent
less.
FRAME BEVELING
There is the same practice nearly everywhere in frame bending
and beveling. Some use machines, others do the work by manual
labor. In every case care is taken to have the flange next the plating
smooth.
The lifting of the bevels for the frame bender, is different here
than anywhere else and is very simple and useful for the style of con-
struction.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
11
Fig. 5 shows a mold made for the frame bender with the bevels
marked on, viz. : 24, 24, 20, 16, 12, 8 and 4. The numbers represent
f:c.s:
-*
-A*
quarters, of an inch, the space between the frame lines on the floor
or the difference in width of the frame farthest from midships.
12
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
In this case twenty-four represents six inches and is equal to
twenty-four quarters or approximately ten degrees in thirty-six-inch
spacing of frames.
SI.A&
The method of obtaining the bevels for this practice is similar to
others only a quarter of an inch is considered instead of the inch.
Fig. 6 shows a tool made of pine for the purpose of obtaining or
registering the bevels for any frame spacing. In this case thirty-six
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION 13
inches being the frame space a hole is drilled at "B" thirty-six inches
above "A" and a pin inserted which determines the frame spacing.
From "A" to "C," is measured off in quarters of an inch representing
the distance between the frame lines on the body plan.
"D" represents a movable bar slotted out as shown so that it can
reach the numbers from "A" to "C," representing the difference of
width at each frame towards the ends of the vessel.
E, Fig. 6, shows a piece of sheet iron placed on line "AC" and
cut off to bevel at one end, as indicated by movable bar. Six inches
is the difference, equal- to twenty- four quarters, which is marked on
the sheet iron bevel and used always for a thirty-six-inch frame spac-
ing.
The bevel gauges are all made in this way from sheet iron, repre-
senting each number. Different frame spacing requires a different
set of bevels. The bevels when not in use are hung on a nail near the
furnace to be at hand any time they are needed.
Fig. 7 shows the bevel applied to a frame on the bending slab.
At the ends of this vessel the framing is spaced twenty-four inches
apart so that two sets of bevels are required for a vessel of this kind.
After making one set of bevels for each frame spacing, there is
no more work necessary in going through the process of bevel lifting,
the numbers being simply marked on each mold at the plate edges,
or anywhere for that matter, because the bevel number is marked on
the slab when the mold is laid down to copy the shape.
This method of applying bevels on the bending slab simplifies mat-
ters in frame bending because unskilled labor can be more easily
broken in on this work when complications are removed.
Although the process of checking the bevels is not resorted to
here, yet very little trouble has been experienced in f ram'e bevels when
the shell plating has been put in place.
This practice has been in use here for a great many years and
works like a charm.
CHAPTER III
MOLDS
Fig. 8 shows mold made ready for marking the bracket plates for
the center keelson.
This bracket connects the channel floor to the center keelson, be-
ing fitted to the center keelson with double angles. This mold will do
for all the brackets on the center keelson which are fitted where there
are no solid floors, as shown by bulkheads and belt frame floors.
Fig. 9 shows mold for center keelson bracket angles. This mold
is made tee shape so that right and left angles can be marked from
same. There are four angles for each frame, including deep floors,
but not bulkheads. The bulkhead holes are closer for water-tight
riveting and are taken care of with the smithwork molds.
Fig. 10 shows mold for girder stiffeners. A mold is made for each
girder because the rise of floor and the drooping of the tank top at
sides, shortens the stiffeners towards the ship's side. This mold is
made tee shape in order to get an angle for each side of the vessel, or
a right and left.
Fig. 11 shows mold for bracket plate, which is suitable for all the
girders throughout the vessel. Six brackets are made from each
mold for each frame clear of the deep floors and bulkheads.
In the case of the girder angles. Fig. 10, at the ends where the
depth becomes less, the mold is drawn together at "a" to suit the dif-
ference, which will close up the pitch of the two holes at either side
of "a." This enables them to mark all the girder stiffeners for each
girder from the one mold made for same.
On the deep floors the girder stiffeners become corner angles, also
the girder next the bilge, seeing the bilge bracket connects to the
fourth girder. In that case the angles are Syi x 3>4 in. and as the
rivet hole spacing is eight diameters on each flange, molds are made
to suit each girder depth.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
IS
Fig. 12 shows mold for bilge
brackets which is used for 85
per cent of the vessel; beyond
that, at both ends, molds are
made for each bracket. Two
plates are obtained from each
niold at the ends beyond mid-
ship.
Fig. 13 shows the mold for
the channel frames at side; "b"
shows the mold used for mark-
ing the shell holes. This " strip
is held at the deck line or top
of frame and fastened on to the
shell flange with clips until it
reaches the outside shell plate
on the bilge. In way of the out-
/T^ 9
side shell plate the mold is
packed out with pieces of
wood the thickness of the in-
side bilge plates, "d," Fig.
15.
This method of making an
allowance for the outside
bilge plate facilitates the ar-
rangement of rivet holes
around the bilge and keeps a
uniform pitch throughout
the vessel. This mold car-
ries the work on throughout
the square body and at the
ends for some distance.
Molds are made for the two bilge strakes only until the frames be-
16
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OE
come almost straight ;at the bilge, when new •molds are made for the
shell holes. The butt holes at "C" connect on to the chanilel floor,
CI, Fig. 14, Figs. 13 and 14 forming the frame and floor, making one
piece from the spar deck to the keel when riveted together.
/ \g- \t
\ \ \ . \ \ \
,Ur
7
The girder stiflfener mold D is applied to the line put on for the
frame space which is square to the top and bottom of plate, the top
and bottom being the tank top line and the top of floors, as shown on
plan. Fig. 43-A.
This girder stiflfener has a rivet spacing of six inches and care is
taken to have the holes regularly spaced. The bottom hole for the
girder angle and intercostal is a gauge for this frame space, for the
hole in the girder stiffener mold must agree with same. At the turn
of the frame a change of the rivet spacing takes place on the top and
bottom angles, owing to the floor being turned so that the flange will
look forward in the fore body and aft in the after body.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION 27
This turning of the floor channel causes the girder stiffener heels
to look away from each other in the frame space where this change
takes place. This change affects everything from the center keelson
to the spar deck, and it is not an unusual thing to see a mix up here
at times.
The top angle of the girder is composed of clips, as shown at H.
The girder plate is scored out so that the tank top underside angles
are made continuous, as shown by K and M, from center keelson.
These angles are spaced eighteen inches apart for tank top stiff-
ening. The angles marked K are intermediate and run up the tank
side about two feet. At the girders and center keelson flanged bracket
plates connect these angles to same, as shown at Fig. 43 and Fig. 43B'.
Fig. 33 shows mold for same.
The tank top stiffeners marked M run from the center keelson to
the bilge and are connected to the girder stiffeners with bracket plates
shown by D2, Fig. 43A. Fig. 16 shows the mold for this angle and
Fig. 11 shows mold for the bracket plates.
The top angles for the girder plates H are marked from molds tee
shape. Fig. 44.
A mold with three holes is used for marking the plate with, as
shown at H, remembering the change at the turn of the frame which
will be lengthened.
The intercostals A Fig. 43 and Fig. 43 A are flanged to the shell,
as shown by plans.
The top of the intercostal is fitted between the girder plate and
bottom girder angle being joggled at this part so that it will fit close
to the girder stiffeners and save linering, as shown at A Fig. 43 A. A
mold is made similarly to Fig. 46 and flanged, as shown by Fig. 47.
The clips marked C for the intercostals are marked from molds
made like Fig. 24 and Fig. 44, also the floor part of the girder mold,
Fig. 10. In way of the plate floors the difference of the thickness of
the plate will have to be considered in relation to the shell holes
through the frame angle.
It will be noticed that the channel floor is spaced three feet apart
and the girder stiffeners are riveted to same which makes a three feet
spacing of both floor and stiffener. The shell holes will have to be
28
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
t >» '. ■ '. ;
. . n ■ . . . .
: ^ : ~ : ; ; ' :
>
/ . .
.
i
* ■-•
rTTT^T-r:
I.I.I-
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
29
ft
A
if
>.
«5
It'
^
o >^ o
s
%
■*A
V
"il^v
o
o ^°
K(
ty
In
*
V
d-
<-.
o
If o
• 111
1^
o
o
O c
o
\o «
>^o
X.
30
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
^
o
IT
I
^ o
O o o o
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
31
\~^]/^
o o o
"l/^'o o o~^^ o' ol/" o
o
o
CiieaeK P/./».y e
/^C.-fJ.
JZ-!. -A
32
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
considered when an angle frame occurs or the girder angle moved
back the thickness of deep floor. Where the frames differ in con-
struction a standard is made of one frame.
The lap butts on the girder are so arranged to come in way of
two rivet holes on the top and bottom angles so that no change is neces-
sary at these parts in the rivet holes. Where a girder is curved on tlie
bottom a mold is made for same.
fit-i/MB
— FT^JJ.
y^^j^^AyS"
£
Fig. 45 shows the continuous channel side stringers and inter-
costals.
The channel is marked with strips for frame holes, straps and holes
for intercostals, as shown by molds Fig. 13-42.
Fig. 24 shows mold used for marking clips for intercostals.
Fig. 41 shows mold for intercostals when same are flanged before
being marked and all bracket plates which are flanged first are marked
by this means as seen by Fig. 25 also.
Fig. 46 shows a mold made for the side stringer intercostals. The
intercostals are punched from this mold and when sheared to shape are
placed in a slot in the rolls, Fig. 47, and flanged cold very quickly.
Fig. 47 shows a very cheap and quick method of flanging small
plates.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION 33
In this case a slot is made in the plate rolls . four inches deep, as
shown at A, Fig. 47 ; the plate is put in as shown at B and the rolls
moved until the plate passes under the upper roll, flanging, same to
shape C, the desired shape of the intercostal. Should the flange be
required less than four inches, as in this case, a packing piece is put
in to make up the difference in depth of flange in the bottom of slot
in the rolls. When plates are flanged after being punched, care must
be taken to flange same to marks given or the brackets will be made
useless. In this case three inches is the gauge given for the rolls for
flanging same and when the plate is flanged it measures three and one-
half inches over the thickness of the material.
It would be impossible to get fair holes in punching before flanging
without making some kind of a test.
In this case a piece of plate one inch wide and twenty inches long
is bent, in the rolls, as shown by Fig. 47, and then the . depth of the
flange is marked upon same which determines the amount which must
be put in the slot in the rolls to obtain the three and one-half-inch
flange.
To obtain the exact material in any plate flanging method, the
radius of the turn of the flange must be determined first. Fig. 49
shows the difference between a square heel and a radius of one inch
and seven-eighths (!%").
The same material in a half-inch thick plate made square would
measure three and one-half inches of a flange while the plate with the
one and seven-eighths radius would give a flange of five and three-
quarters wide.
This is approximate to show why errors are made when punching
holes in the flange of the plate without considering if the flange will
be three and one-half inches or five and three-quarter inches when
finished.
The operation of flanging determines the radius of the heel of the
flange whether it is very round or sharp.
It effects a great saving in cost and time to have work of this kind
done by this method of punching before flanging and by finding out
the ainount of material necessary to do the work there is no fear
of results.
34
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
o
o .
o o
o
o o
O
o
o o
o o
o
o o
O
o
o o
O .0
o
O
•
O O
o
o o
o o
o
o o
o o
o
o o
o o
o
o o
o o
o
o o
o
o
o
o
o o
o o
o o
o o
Ci
10
O O
o o
O O
o O
'
o
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
35
36 LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
In Scotland all the work would be taken from the vessel when the
ship's frames were in place and faired up. The keel and center keel-
son plates are usually laid off with molds, same as on the lakes, and
after the keel and keelson have been erected, ribbands, B, Fig. 50,
made of stout timbers are placed level with the under side of the chan-
nel floors, being propped up with shores and braced so that the frame
lines 94, 95, etc., remain square to the keel and center keelson.
The keels of vessels are laid to a declivity of half an inch to the.
foot, or thereabout and in order to have the material in a fore and aft
direction, square to the keel, a plumb board is used, as shown by Fig.
50a. AB is- the plumb line and AC the declivity line. A line with a
weight attached is hung from where the line C intersects AB and when
it swings on to the line AC the material is considered plumb and right.
The girder stiffeners are faired up and the plumb tried on same and
if they are out of plumb the stiffeners D, Fig. SO, are forced in place
with wood braces until they are plumb, then the template, C, Fig. 50,
is placed against the girder stiffeners and the rivet holes copied on to
the template with whitening. The template is then placed on top of
the plate and the rivet holes transferred from the template with re-
versers (tools made for the purpose). The template being long and
awkward to get into the vessel between the ribbands, it is the practice
to make the template in two pieces when it exceeds sixteen feet long.
A, Fig. 50, shows how the templates are butted together.
Fig. 48 shows the girder plate put in place and the template for
the intercostal A. The template is taken out and the plate marked
similar to Fig. 46, and then punched, sheared and flanged, the same as
on the lakes, Fig. 47.
On. ocean-going vessels great care is taken to have the intercostal
plates fit closely to the floors and above same.
This is considered helpful when the vessel comes under hogging
strains, because the plate picks up the strain which is likely to come
on the rivets if these intercostals are short and do not fit snug to the
floors.
Fig. 51 shows a piece of girder ready for tank top angles across
ships.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
Fig. 52 shows the side framing in way of a side stringer. B, the
ribband holds the frames in place, which are faired up similar to the
bottom work.
C shows a, template for the side stringer, this may be in two or three
lengths, just as the plater desires.
The clips A are riveted on to' the frame before it is erected and the
stringer template is held to the line of clips in the square body, but at
the end^ of the vessel a line is run in for the side stringer and the
clips put on to the line, the same being riveted before the stringer is
put in place.
Fig. 53 shows the method of marking the side stringers. The tem-
plate is laid upon the channel and fastened with grabs, the holes A are
transferred on to the channel by means of a batten punch, which is
very thin at the end. The center of .the rivet-hole on the wood is
pierced by striking the punch with a hammer and making a punch
mark upon the metal.
A marker is used for making a ring, the punch mark being in
the center.
The butt marks shown at C are transferred on to the template
from the channel already in ^lace, care being taken in having the
butt rivet holes in both pieces in a fair line.
The line B, Fig. 53, shows the method of marking the flange of
channel.
Line B is put on with a gauge and the holes marked on same, as
shown by ring marks. The ring marks are not put on, simply the
chalk mark made at right angles to the line. The. puncher then
punches all the holes to this line, which seems the most convenient
way for him.
In Scotland the cost of girder plate, Fig. 50, to mark, punch and
put in place, would be four dollars anfl thirty-seven cents ($4.37),
bottom angle, two dollars and sixty-four cents ($2.64), side stringer
channel, Fig. 52, five dollars and seventy-six cents ($5.76), and inter-
costals, Fig. 46, forty-five cents ($0.45).
On the lakes the work is done for one-third of the Scotch prices.
The turning of the frame, Fig. 54, shows the bottom framing and
Fig. 55 the top side framing.
38
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
This method of framing makes an easy combination for laying off
the work, but discrepancies will occur if care is not taken to lay out
all the parts on the floor.
Fig. 54: the floor channel is spaced 36 in. apart from 50 ft. for-
o o o
o o o
o o o
o o o
o o o
O O' o
o o o
O O' o
O o o
o o o
O o o
o o o
o o o
o o o
o o o
1^ o
O o
o o o
^^.^r
O O o o^^ O O O o
o o
0^<
O o o o o * o
CO o O /^ O
° . o o o o >c- o O o
ward to 447 ft. aft. The top side frame being riveted to the floor, the
frame from the keel to the spar deck is a straight line.
In this case of a frame turning it takes place at No. 95. The chan-
nel floor is looking aft in the afterbody and the frame looking for-
ward in the same body. When the frame leaves the parallel part of
the vessel, or dead flat part, the channel floor flange to the shell
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
39
plating, is closed and the frame channel on
the top sides is opened. In the forebody
of the vessel it is similar, the frame flange
is opened and the floor closed to suit the
tapering in of the vessel.
The heel of the channel frame and chan-
nel floor remains at the frame spacing
throughout and any changes made are
made on the inside of the vessel.
The frame space between Nos. 94 and
95 remains the same but the frame holes
are a greater distance apart than the other
spacing, which necessitates the changing
of the rivet hole pitch on the seam in this
space. The bottom plating will require
inway of the channel floors the widening
of the pitch of riveting, while the space
above the floor where the frame turns will
require closing up, Pig. 55.
If the shell plating was butted in the
middle of the space there would be no
change made in the length of the plates,
but as a rule the butts are made between
two rivet holes, taking the butt nearer the
heel of the frame than the flange. The
plates are always butted between the open-
ing in the space or half way between the
heel and edge of flange of the frame.
In the bottom the plate which crosses,
the frame turning space will require to be
lengthened, while on the side of the vessel
the plate will be shortened to suit the
frame arrangement.
The lap butt plating is more in vogue
now and with the exception of the keel and
sheer strake the plating is all lap butted.
In this case the change of the frame is
more noticeable because in the forebody
the inside plate is carried right up to the
edge of the flange on the side and the heel
of the floor on the bottom, this allows the
Si
|.«H
^'
8^
■^
40
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
/S'^*" 3y-/ttt/C-"i
i/aa-^r^/^ei/t
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
41
42
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
43
^
-fF3| — rs
r- -s-- 5
'r '
O sol
44
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
i
4
Oq
o
o
-
V
Q
^
a:
>, .
:::;:;:;:- ■:;;i.i:i
?
\ ,
,' 1 ■
i ■ I f
^u
■; :• i:
. r^
:■■■■.'•■/'■■.•
;;. . . .;;. . . >,;
^
. j
. 1
•
" 1
. 1
»
" ti
. ii
o
~ 1 •
, :l
Jt
■ \
*\
K
. \ ■
ff
1
. 1
ilHijii;:iilipi!r
a
;-a
=1 lii
'V
^ r
^
: El
;■•:!■:;■•■■■
!:
■ 11
^irf,j
x ^
?rJi ^
*
^u — 1
K 1
ih-
-
cc
^ 1
p
^
K
Si '
a
iiiiHSjhniiiiii!"
it*^^
9
L
-^-ff
♦rJ
' 1
;'■...■:....■,
■1
1. 1
■ 1
w>
1
Ii
s
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
'45
plate to be pushed up the thickness of the overlapping one and allows
the seam of the plating in the lap space to be more easily faired up.
3' Holes in Bilge Stringer
into Plates throughout
|iii « II III «i iir-nr
ai III III II
iiiooiiu „aio oiiiio o|||, oiiiio oHig oiiiio oiiio oiiih oaiom
-frJ i i i i tf f r i H i h i
1 i rmn iri htp
4^
! I !' 1 'r ||
I Ij I Si» I
mftt
,, .: ,, Xi. ji i| ,, -
t
Tflf
1)5 ill
-^
TfTffi^
:^^yj-*Ht=^i|,
*^
■ II
^. i A "' il il Cjl 1! II 11 11 il |l I fS'
tftlrrs
Htfctjitl
ligfMTinfinTfirrr
jViliiT-H-iHl-il-H
JtlJjljhfeUiJrLdHfe
wir^
I Si
f
1) inririniT
-!i-il 4 r ^ -lH [-il-4)4lHir-rH
^m^
, ji n ;; II I II ] ! ; i \ r^] t~^^
-ti-S-f?i l
-■^T-^Tiiif-i^-t^'
''t-t|^;-iL4j-[i-i^-i!-{{-{i'-i!-li-H-it-ii'-il' H
J!.J_4.jL^^ilJljLLUMjiLLlXLUl:,.!JjU:
w
■f-ti-H-
10
©=
= =©
Xiigliteiiing' Holes X3 Xl8
Fig. 61a.
MAHWEJtEVI^W
46 LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
On the bottom, Fig. '54, the inside plate would require to be made
longer where the frame turns, while on the side, Fig. 55, the plate
would be shortened.
The outside shell plate is butted on the line of the heel at the
opposite end of the frame space to the inside plate" on the bottom,
Fig. 54, in the afterbody and the edge of the frame in the forebody.
On the side, Fig. 55, the shell plate lap butt of the outside plate
will be cut to the line of the heel of the frame in the forebody and
the line of the edge of the flange in the afterbody.
The sight edge of the lap is always seen from the after end of the
vessel and the inside plate lap edge is the width of the lap away from
the frame and the outside in line with the frame. This enables a suit-
able liner to be fitted between the plates and facilitates the fairing up
of the shell plate seams. This is about all to be considered on the
shell plating where the frame turning is resorted to.
Referring to Fig. 54, it will be noticed that care must be taken in
placing the brackets on the various angles in order to have the angles
square across the ship and parallel to each otljer. On the center keel-
son the vertical angles are all arranged to suit the bracket plate on the
channel floors. This bracket is 7-16 in. thick so that one angle is
kept that distance away from the other angle which is in line with the
channel floor, as shown at Nos. 93, 94, 95, 96 and 97.
■ At the turn of the flange, 95, the space is shortened up the two
thicknesses of the brackets, being 35j^ between them and outside of
this space the distance remains the same throughout at 35 9-16 be-
tween angles.
- • The main tank top angle A is fastened on to the center keelson
bracket which connects the floor and center keelson together. It will
be noticed that'the floor fits close to this bracket at the center keelson,
also the tank top angle.
The tank top angle must be in the same line with the floor in order
to be square to the center keelson. The tank top angle is connected
to the girder stiffeners with a ^-in. plate bracket while the bottom of
the girder B is on the channel floor.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION 47
If the girder stiifener is laid out on the girder plate square to the
floor, the tank top angle will be out of line three-eighths of an inch
unless the bracket A is placed in the bosom of the girder stiffener.
The simplest way to do is to mark the holes on the girder plates
% in. out of square.
This only applies to the tank top stiffeners, the intermediate angles
being fastened to the girders and center keelson with flanged plate
brackets. No trouble need be experienced in placing them as shown
on Fig. 54, square to the center keelson and between the tank top
angles.
Another obstacle turns up on the tank top angle if care is not
taken. The top side channel frame being on the same line as the
channel floor, the bilge bracket, Fig. 55, is seven-sixteenths thick
which will throw the tank top angle out of line that much.
To get over this it will be necessary to bend the tank top angle
7-16 in. off a straight line. The part beyond C does not require to be
looked out for in order to take care of the tank top plating, so bending
the angle will not be detrimental to any of the other parts. The gird-
ers being parallel to the center keelson there should be no trouble in
getting the angles and girders square for the tank top plating.
If there should be any doubt about getting the holes fair on this
work, the holes could be punched a size less and reamed and counter-
sunk in place. , The holes are all reamed anyway and. the difference
will only be the countersinking of the bar holes. The tank top is edge
and edge placed so that there is no doubt about the holes clear of
the angles urider the plating.
The turning of the frame affects one space only, from the keel tc
the spar deck; beyond that the pieces fit in similar to the spaces at
the other side of the frame.
In tlie bottom the center keelson angles are 35}i apart instead of
35 9-16 and the holes for the intermediate angle brackets change in
the next space; it is immaterial about them, so that the only change
to look out for is the two bracket plates coming in that space that
connects the floor to the center keelson.
48 LAKE S HIP YARD METHODS OF
On the girder the stififener holes are closer, owing to the flange
of the angles looking toward each other, but the distance between
heels remains the same.
The girder intercostals are plain in this space in the bottom and
are the full frame space, being the thickness of the floor less in length
beyond this space and punched out for the flanges of the floors. On
the side, Fig. 55, No. 4 girder stififener angles are turned away from
each other making a space between the stififener holes greater than in
the bottom on girders Nos. 1, 2 and 3. The side stringer intercostals
are shorter the thickness of the frame than beyond this space and the
intercostal is punched out for two frame flanges instead of one. The
change in face angles and channels is in shortening up the holes in
the space.
The main deck stringer has the frame space lengthened, the holes
in the plate beam being farther apart than the other spaces.
Spar deck beams are similar to the main deck in this space, the
holes being farther apart in this space, as shown by measurement
from heel to heel of beam. The tank at side stiflfeners is on the same
line with the frame, which means the closing up of the holes the same
as shell holes.
On this vessel under discussion, the frames would not be turned
until they came to the engine room bulkhead, so that everything from
the stern to the engine room bulkhead remains the same for a distance
of nearly 500 ft. This saves any changing amidships and takes the
work clear of hatches, which saves quite a lot of risk where the ma-
terial is most extensive. On this vessel the floors are shut bevel for-
ward and open bevel aft, frames open forward and shut bevel aft.
The slight bevel for this length does not cause any inconvenience
whatever. There is 50 ft. forward where frame spacing is reduced
to 24 and 18 in. The frames are six-inch channels and in one piece
from the keel to deck.
There is also extra stififening, all being molded from the mold
loft, one mold being used for each side of the vessel.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION 49
Shell plating. The shell plating edges on the side are all parallel
to the sheer and the bottom plating edges are parallel to the keel. The
girders in the bottom are also parallel to the center line which makes
the bottom framing all square.
On the side the main deck and side stringers as well as the tank
at side follow the line of sheer.
Fig. 56 shows the method of laying off a shell plate on the side of
the vessel. The line AB is a level line and from this line the frames
and butt laps are squared off. From AB is measured the distance
19 in., 18 in., I6J/2 in., 14j4 in., 13 in. and 11 in., which determines
the top edge of the plate. The plate being 67 in. parallel, the width
67 in. is measured on the frame and butt lap lities, which determines
the width of the plate. The line for side stringer is put on parallel to
the upper edge and 21 in. below same. The frame mold is applied
as shown on frame No. 61.
After the frames are all marked the seam holes are then laid out
with a space mold. The space between frames 63 and 64 shows the
rivet holes marked but this is done after the frame holes have been
marked so that any error may be detected in the frame spacing should
the frame holes not agree with the holes in the mold for the seam
holes. The hole for the intercostal flange is also laid off with a mold
made for that purpose, the holes corresponding with the holes in the
intercostal plate mold, D, Fig. 57. The lap butt mold is laid off to
suit the three seam holes nearest the flange of the frame in this case.
This is an inside plate and in the forebody the plate is run right
up to the edge of the frame at the fore end and the after end of the
plate runs over the flange enough to tdke the three holes in the seam,
as shown.
The frames are all numbered from forward so that the' fore end
of the plate runs up almost to flange of No. 58.
No. 7 plate will lap on to No. 8 plate taking three seam holes. as
shown at frame No. 68. This arrangement forces the plate at the
frame 58 inside its own thickness and assists in fairing up the shell
seams in the lap butt space.
so LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
Fig. 57 shows the molds for the shell plate, Fig. 56.
A is the frame rivet hole mold, B lap butt mold, C seam mold, D
side stringer intercostal mold, E side stringer intercostal mold where
a lap butt comes in the space. The holes in these molds are arranged
so that the molds can be turned over or end for end, so that there is
no fear of any mix up.
D, Fig. 57, the mold for the side stringer intercostal shows five
holes, being for seven-eighths inch dianaeter rivets. On the mold for
the int-ercostals, Fig. 46, three-quarter rivets are considered, which
accounts for only five rivets being in space D, Fig. 57.
, This plate. Fig. 56, is an inside plate but all the holes are marked
on the one side to save turning over at the punch machine. One
lap and the frame holes will have a burr on the side where the material
is laid together if care is not taken, but as a rule the holes are counter-
sunk through the thickness of- the plate which removes any roughness
caused in punching.
All the side plates are marked similarly to Fig. 56 from H to M,
molds being used to suit the different changes such as water-tight,
bulkhead, inch riveted seams, stringer shoes and spar deck stringer
angle riveting.
The bottom plating is all square, and the only change of the rivet-
ing is at the keel, which is inch-diameter riveting.
The keel plate riveting is all inch-diameter rivets ; one side of the
center keelson being made water-tight requires an extra mold for the
rivet holes.
Molds needed for the keel are seam molds, two center keelson bar
molds, liner mold, butts and frame rivet hole molds.
The bottom plating B, C and D are run parallel 'to the keel, and
any changes made are done on strakes E and G.
When the frame space becomes longer than the frame spacing
amidships, molds are made complete for the plates inway of same.
The shell plating is completed from molds with the exception of two
plates on each strake at each end.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION SI
In Scotland the frames must be erected and faired up in place
prior to anything having been done on the shell plating.
Fig; 58 shows the top side framing and spar- deck beams erected
and the ribbands on prior to proceeding with the plating on the vessel.
E, Fig. 58, shows the battens for the fairing up of the shell plate
edges. The sight edges are the edges of the outside strakes of plating.
This batten is faired up, then the width of plates tested and if found
correct, the line of plate is nicked in on the edge of the frame with a
chisel. From this line the width of the inside plate lap is measured
on the frame and chisel-marked similarly to the sight edge. The
batten marked F, Fig. 58, is an edge and edge line the width of the
continuous strap being measured from this line, as shown at B.
The top batten shows the deck line. This batten is faired up, and,
as a rule, the under side of same is nicked in with a chisel on the
frame. If the sheer batten is three inches wide, then the top of the
beams would be three inches above the line. There is only one rivet
hole punched in the beam, the other being drilled when the beam is
at the proper height or true deck line.
The side stringers and main deck are treated similarly to the spar
deck, only the line is put on the frame at the desired height, and the
brackets for the main deck and under clips for side stringers fitted and
riveted to same before fitting main deck plates and side stringer in-
tercostals.
The sheer strake line is of great importance, and this line is not.
put on until the spar deck stringer plates and angles are all riveted.
The ribband near the ship side fairs up the beams at the side, the
bolt being removed which connects the beam and frame together,
allowing the beam to fit close to the ribband. If the hole is unfair
when the beam is at the true deck line, the hole is rimed fair and
bolted prior to drilling the extra holes for same.
Each beam is treated separately and fastened so that only one
beam at a time is depending upon the ribband. On the spar deck, as
52 LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
shown, the edge of the flange of the stringer angle is faired up with
a batten, as shown by G. This determines the fairness of the vessel's
side at the deck line. The top ribband is heavier than the others as
a rule, and is of considerable assistance in fairing up th,e spar deck
on the outside.
Three ribbands would be used on a vessel of this kind on the spar
deck, one at the side, one near the hatches and the other at the- center
of the ship.
Fig. 59 shows the interior work around the frames completed
ready for the shell plating to go on. The spar deck ribband at side,
stringer plate and intercostal are removed. The top ribband as a rule
is about one foot below the deck line instead of, as shown, in line
with deck. Fig. 59.
ABCD, Fig. 59, shows a template for an inside plate placed on the
frames in order to copy the holes and shape of plate from same. The
template is made in two pieces in order to facilitate the carrying of
same and putting it in place on the vessel.
The rivet holes are copied from the frames with whitening. Pins
are made the size of the rivet holes and by dipping them into a pot of
whitening they can mark all the holes on the frame which comes on
the template, in this case, eight.
The template is laid on the plate with the whitening marks on the
under side of the template next the plate, just as shown on the plan.
The plate is made damp under the whitening marks and by pressing
the template on to the plate, which is done with the hand, giving the
template a blow, the impression of the rivet holes is left on the plate.
The plate is then all marked for the rivet holes which saves the turn-
ing over of same at the punch machine.
In order to get over the burr left on the holes at the frames by
punching, the frame holes and one butt are countersunk through the
plate. By this arrangement the puncher has no turning over plates.
The lap holes at. E, Fig. 59, are all drilled after the plates are put
in place. The outside plates are all reversed in the usual way.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION S3
All the shell plates on the vessel are templated from the vessel with
the exception of the keel plates, which are marked from a mold simi-
larly to the lake methods. To take a shell plate from the stock yard,
30 ft. X 16 ft. X 25 in., mark, punch, countersink, roll and erect on
ship would cost eight dollars and twenty-five cents ($8.25). On the
lakes the plate can be put. on the vessel for two-thirds of that price.
Fig. 60 shows the plating and riveting of part of the vessel under
discussion.
Tank Top Plating. Fig. 61 shows the method of laying of? a tank
top plate.
C strake port--No. 11, which fits over frames Nos. 100 to 107, as
shown on plan. The lines not numbered are the intermediate angles
under the tank top plating, and the numbered lines are the angles
which run from the, center keelson to the ship's. side, which have been
referred to as tank top angles.
FC 11, Fig. 61, is square and the angles are all parallel, 18 inches
apart, which, after the width of plate is put on, are squared off from
one of the edges. These lines are obtained from the space batten C.
The workmen laying off the work are never allowed to make any
measurements,- battens are always taken from the mold loft, and these
battens are returned to the mold loft when, hot in use and there
checked often as to sizes.
Line AB is the girder line which is put on parallel to one of the
edges of the plate, PC 11. Fig. 61A shows the tank top and side
plating. Fig. 63 shows the molds used for marking the rivet holes,
viz. : A is the frame rivet hold mold ;. B, butt mold ; C, seam mold,
and D, girder mold. These molds are all made so that the molds, if
turned upside down, will not make any difference as far as the loca-
tion of the rivet holes is concerned.
This tank top plating is edge and edge work, which necessitates the
planing of the plate all round, as well as countersinking all the holes
in the plate. The marking of the tank top plating is practically the
54 LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF ^
same method as laying off the bottom shell plating, with the excep-
tion that the bottom shell plates are all lapped and the tank top is
edge and edge. All straps and edge strips are laid off with the plates.
The tank plating at the side is treated similarly to the side shell
plating. ,
The top of the plating of tank at side is the main deck and the
seams of the tank side plating run parallel to the deck and sheer. Fig.
62 shows part of the tank top in place and three plates on A strake,
which is more often called the rider plate. Two templates are shown
in place for copying tank top plates, B, 11 and 12. This is the
method practiced in Scotland for securing the rivet holes and shape
of plates on tank top.
The same method is practiced on the tank top as on the shell plat-
ing. The edges are all lined in and the width of the plates measured
to make sure of the material being the right size. This tank top plat-
ing is all edge and edge work, and when finished the top of the tank
is flush, making the most expensive style of tank top plating. The
process of laying off a tank top of this style is to put on the rider
plate strake, this strake is marked A, then proceed with the ne-id
strake, B.
The templates are cut in two pieces, as described before. X shows
where they are butted together.
It will be seen that the template reaches spaces from 98 to 113,
covering two plate lengths. B 11 butts between frames 105 and 106
and B 12 between 113 and 114, the template B 12 is left on the vessel,
and when B 11 is marked the template is returned to the vessel and
put on the end of B 12. In this way the whole strake of plating is
marked, which saves waiting for plates to be put in place, so that
another plate may be marked from end of same.
The molds B and C, Fig. 63, are used for marking the plate butts
and edges in order to have the holes opposite each other on the butts
and edges.
The tank top angles are all connected to the girders and all the
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION 55
work riveted under the tank top plating before the plating is pro-
ceeded with.
All the straps for the plating and edge strips are marked from the
tank top plates when the plates 'are in place and bolted up.
It will /be noticed that no chances whatever are taken in tem-
plating the work. All the girders are completed and riveted before
the plater commences to template the work.
On the lakes all the work is going on at the same time, but the
work is all riveted up in the tanks before putting the top plates in
place. The greatest of care is necessary in keeping the tank top
angles and girder clips in correct position or unfair work is sure
to occur.
A plate 24 ft. x 6 ft. x 20 pounds would cost in Scotland to mark,
punch, roll and erect in place, seven dollars and twenty-five cents
($7.25). On the lakes it would cost two-thirds that price and all the
other work, such as strips and straps cost only two-thirds of the
Scotch prices.
CHAPTER IV
STERN BUILDING
Fig. 64 shows the plating and cant frames on the sheer plan.
Fig. 65 shows the half breadth plan of the stern. The bulwarks
are not on this plan, only the plating and cant frames.
Fig. 66 shows half plan of spar deck stringer around the stern.
Numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 represent the cant frame beams.
Lines 2 B, 4 B, 6 B, 8 B, 10 B, 12 B, 14 B and 16 B represent
the buttock lines; 198 represents the transom frame and the other
numbers the frames before same.
DECK AND KNUCKLE LINES
Fig. 67 shows the sheer plan and Fig. 68 the half breadth plan.
These two plans show the method of getting the knuckle and deck
lines as shown by following up the numbered lines.
The sheer plan, Fig. 67, is the first plan to be fixed. In this case
the knuckle line is run in parallel to the deck on the sheer plan. Fig.
67, and all the buttock lines numbering 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16
are ended on same. From the knuckle line the buttock lines are drawn
in parallel to CD and intersect the deck at side, as shown by numbers
Z, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16 shown on Fig. 67. From the deck the
lines are run down to the half breadth plan, where they cut the same
numbered buttock line on the half breadth, giving points for the deck
line in plan.
The same process is gone through for the knuckle line as shown
by lines running from the knuckle. Fig. 67, to the same numbered
lines on the half breadth plan. Fig. 68.
The buttock lines on the half breadth plan are two feet apart and
parallel to the center line, which are shown by the numbers.
All the numbered lines on these two plans represent buttock lines
with the exception of the frame lines 195, 196, 197 and 198.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
57
The method of transferring the lines from plan 67 to 68 is done by
erecting a perpendicular line frSm A to G, representing the deck line
at the extreme after end of the deck at center.
From the line AC the buttock 'lines, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16
are measured square to the intersection of the deck line on Fig. 67
and transferred to Fig. 68 on the same lines as shown by the same
numbers, giving the deck line as shown on half breadth plan, Fig. 68.
/v(?.64^.
STXirl^eKflir^t-s \^QMlfi
IS3
The same process is gone through with to get in the knuckle line
on the half breadth plan.
ED represents the extreme after end of the knuckle at center and
by measuring from this line to where the buttock lines intersect the
knuckles at side and transferring same to half breadth plan furnishes
the knuckle line, as shown on Fig. 68.
By following up the numbered lines on the two plans the deck and
knuckle lines will be plainly seen.
58
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
SET LINES
After the knuckle and deck lines have been faired up the set lines
for the deck and knuckles are run in.
FT^p.^s:
DF, Fig. 69, is the set line and is run in on the she^r plan at right
angles to CDG. G is a continuation of the line CD. From DG at
right angles the lines 2 to 18 are run to the knuckle intersecting the
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
59
44
. ft
-0
II
A^
^tA
(^
-"A
r-
TT^AM^eM
f,fi
'^
■n
•*
-^
/v^.(^^.
4l»
S^^SJ^ /3>y ^^^ ^T
D eck. A T Cbnte-i^
t^t /
f7tp.&g.
V 'i(, /ji-
^7<; .po
62 LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
buttock lines on same and the measurements from DG to 2, 4, 6, 8,
10, 12, 14 and 16 are transferred to the half breadth plan, Fig. 70,
measuring on the same numbered buttock lines from the perpendicular
line EGD for the knuckle set line.
On the sheer plan. Fig. 69, the line DG is hinged from D on to
ED, as shown by GG, and the lines shown perpendicular from Fig.
70 and numbered 2-2, 4-4, 6-6, 8-8, 10-10, 12-12, 14-14 and 16-16
represent the distance from the line CDG to where the knuckle is
intersected and numbered.
The same process is gone through for the deck set line, which is
erected at C as shown by CH. These set lines in the half breadth plan
can be obtained by measuring along the line DF.
CHAPTER V
EXPANSION OF PLATING
CKLD, Fig. 71, shows the expanded plating. The expansion of
the plating is obtained by bending a batten around the set lines for
the knuckle and deck as shown on the half breadth plan, Fig. 12. On
the batten bent to the set line the buttock intersections are marked
upon same and transferred to the deck set line on to CH, Fig. 71, and
run in at right angles to CH, as shown by numbered lines dotted in.
The same process is gone through with the knuckle set line, the in-
tersections of the buttocks on the half breadth plan being lined in at
right angles to DF.
At right angles from CD the buttock lines intersecting the knuckle
and deck at side are run up until they meet the same numbered but-
tock lines falling from CH and DF, which gives the points for curves
CK and DL. By following the same numbered lines the expansion
will be easily seen;
The cant frames are next run in on half breadth plan. Fig. 72,
as shown by numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7.
To get the cant frames in on the expanded plating, a batten is bent
around the knuckle line on the half breadth plan Fig. 72, and the cant
frames marked on the batten where they cross same, as shown on plan.
The buttock lines are also marked on the batten and if they coin-
cide with the buttock lines on the expanded plating, the work is con-
sidered correct.
CANT FRAMES
After the stern is all faired up the cant frames are run in on the
half breadth plan. Fig. 73, numbered 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7.
The cant frames are transferred to the sheer plan Fig. 74, by
measuring at right angles from AC to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 for the
64
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
65
deck position of the frame on the sheer plan, as shown by dotted
lines running from the cant frames in the half breadth plan I<'ig. 73
to the cant frames in the sheer plan Fig. 74.
u^-7-5^
SPbpDeck
This determines the cant frame at deck. The same process, is goi^e
through for the cant frame at knuckle, from the perpendicular line
66 LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
DE is measured where, the knuckle line in half breadth plan Fig. 73
crosses the cant frame as shown by lines extending from the knuckle
line in half breadth plan to knuckle line on sheer plan, Fig. 74.
By following the perpendicular lines from the half breadth plan to
. the sheer plan, the cant frames will easily be seen in the two plans.
FLOOR PLATES
To obtain the floor plates for the cant frames this is determined
after the depth of the transom floor No. 198 is determined.
Fig. 75 shows the transom floor, numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 are
the positions of the cant frames.
No. 1 cant frame is next to the stern post and perpendicular,
which stands at right angles to the twenty-five feet level line as shown
crossing over Figs. 74 and 75. ■
The bottom of the cant frames are run across from the transom
floor as shown by dotted lines from Fig. 75 to Fig. 74 and numbered
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7. - For the top of the floors the same method is
practiced as shown by the dotted lines run from the top of transom
floor to sheer plan.
Fig. 76 shows the cant frames in their true shape and length. The
true cant frame is obtained by erecting a perpendicular line MN at
right angles to the level line 25 ft. as shown.
The knuckle and deck height at side is obtained by measuring
from the 25-ft. level line. Fig. 74, to the knuckle and deck heights and
transferring them to the perpendicular line MN, Fig. Td, and squar-
ing same out from line MN. This gives the height of cant frame at
knuckle and deck. The width is obtained by measuring out from the
transom frame along the heel of the cant frame to the knuckle for the
knuckle width and to the deck line for the width at deck.
One half breadth plan. Fig. 73 shows number 5 cant marked 5 at the
transom, knuckle and deck line, which gives the measurements
referred to.
CANT FRAME BEVELS
A, Fig. 77, shows No. 7 cant frame transferred from the sheer
plan. Fig. 74, and the expanded cant frame from Fig. 76. X4, X5
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
67
and X6 show the beveling edges or the flange of the cant frame No. 7.
To obtain the beveling edge at the knuckle, the cant frame No. 7
in the half breadth plan, Fig. 73, is squared from the heel of the cant
as shown by X. From X to X2 is the distance for the beveling edge
of the flange, which is measured out on the knuckle line, Fig. 77 , as
shown at X4.
From X to X3, Fig. 73, gives the distance NXS, Fig. 77 , the bevel-
ing edge at deck.
68
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
To obtain the beveling edge at the transom floor a parallel line to
MN, Fig. 77 , is run in the width of the transom frame, MN represent-
ing the heel of the transom frame.
By measuring from the 2S-ft. line to the cant frame flange No. 7
X 7 , Fig. 75, and transferring the height X7 from Fig. 75 to X6, Fig.
77, on the line of the flange of the transom frame, a point is obtained
for the cant frame bevel at the transom.
By drawing a line from the knuckle X4 to X6 the intersection of
the line MN is the bevel which in this case is shut bevel at the transom
frame. The line d shows open bevel to the amount of between b and
d. The bevel line shown at d. Fig. 77, is transferred to a board' as
shown by Fig. 77a.
The bevel line is put on from the left of the board so that when the
bevel is to be applied to the angle on the slab the bevel tongue is an
acute angle, Fig. 77b.
STEEL SHIP .CONSTRUCTION
69
Fig. 78 shows the starboard 'stern plating and Fig. 79 molds for
expanded plating. ■ <
Two plates are marked from molds 2 and 3 and No. 1 mold being
for one side the mold is turned over to complete the port side of tlie
plate.
The cant frames 1, 2, 3, and 4, have the same number of holes to
shell, so that eight cant frames can. be marked alike on the plating ;
5, 6, and 7 cant frames have Ihe same number of holes so that for the
cant frames to the shell two molds will suit the purpose of marking
same for all the stern plating.
Fig. 80 shows the molds for the stringer angle, the shell flange is
^T^lZ.
obtained from the expanded mold for the shell DK, Fig. 79 and the
stringer flange from the stringer mold. Fig. 66.
When the molds are applied to the stringer angle the buttock lines
2B, 4B, 6B, 8B, lOB, 12B and 14B must agree at the heel of the an-
gle where the molds come together.
Fig. 81 shows the set line in true form and the lines dropped from
the set line DF in sheer plan. Fig. 78, will show how same is obtained
by following the btjttock lines from the half breadth to the sheer plan,
Figs. 76 and 81.
This set line is used for getting the fore and aft curve of the stern
plating. The butts of plating are marked on this line. Fig. 81, and as
this is the actual width of the plates, a set is made of iron to this line
on the half breadth plan and on the set iron the buttock lines are
70
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
copied, so that when the setiron is applied to the line DF the buttock
lines on the set iron must agree with the buttock lines on the ex-
panded plating.
For example, take plate No. 1, the mold would be applied to the
plate, the holes as shown on mold all marked and the
lines center, set and buttocks lined on, and when the
mold is removed these lines are marked^ with a center punch so that
the lines will not be rubbed out in handling before the plate gets to
the rolls. The set line DF being near the knuckle line, two other lines
would be put on the plate parallel to the set line, one a foot from the
set line at the bottom of the plate and another twelve inches from the
top butt.
Plate No. 1 when marked would show two set lines, buttock lines
2 and 4 on each side and center line all center punched jn for further
reference.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION 71
The set lines are used for applying the set iron obtained from DF2
on the half breadth plan, Fig. 81, and the buttock lines are used for
the purpose of placing the plate in the bending rolls right. The plate
is put in the rolls so that the buttock lines are parallel to the rolls.
By taking care to roll the plates to the buttock lines, or at right
angles to the set line, there will be no fear of the work when com-
pleted being a misfit.
In Scotland the fairing up process of stern building is the same as
practiced on the lakes. The method of doing this work on the lakes
being copied from Scotland.
In Scotland the stern builder is of more consequence than on the
lakes for molds are not supplied to him with holes' drilled and an exact
copy of the plate.
The molds supplied to the stern builder in Scotland consist of, first,
the expanded cant frame and beam molds, Fig. 76; second, spar deck
stringer skeleton mold. Fig. 66. 'Mold for set line D1F2, Fig. 81,
shell plating expansion mold, Fig. 82, and board with bevels for cant
frames.
The work proceeds as follows in Scotland for stern building.
After the plater receives the molds and bevels, he bevels the
frames and bends them to suit the knuckle, R, Fig. 76.
The expanded cant frame and beam mold as a rule are in one piece,
as shown by Fig. Td, the line of the depth and width of beam brackets
and height of floors being scratched in on the molds to represent them
as shown on Fig. 76. The frame beam, beam bracket and floor plate
after being punched are bolted together and fastened to a post near
the ground. The stringer plating is laid down on the ground and the
shape marked upon it with the mold made for that purpose.
The beams are lined in on the plate and with template wood the
holes are copied from the beams hung to the transom frame.
When the stringers are punched they are put on top of beams
which fairs up the beams and brings the cant frames to their proper
position.
The stringer bar is bent to the mold and put up in place and marked ;
it is then taken down and punched and put up in place and bolted
down.
72 LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
The shell plates 1, 2 and 3 are laid down on the ground and a mold
for the expanded plating, Fig. 82, is laid upon them and all the lines
copied on. The butt straps are punched and the rivet holes marked
on the plating ; this completes one side of the plating, the mold is then
turned over and the other side of the stern plating marked.
Th6 cant frame lines are all lined on the plates as shown by num-
bers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 and as the cant frames are all punched the
holes are copied from same with template wood, the deck line CK,
Fig. 82, being a guide for applying the template when marking the
plates, the under side of the stringer plate being the guide when
copying the holes from the sterri frames in place.
The buttocks and set lines are marked in with a center punch for
• future reference as explained.
The frame and butt rivet holes are all that are punched at this
stage. The plating is put in place after being rolled to shape and the
balance of the holes marked. Fig. 78 is about what the stern would
look like at this stage, with the exception that the butt holes are
punched.
The holes for the knuckles would be laid out when hung up so
that the punching would be done from the outside when the plates are
taken down. The holes for the stringer angle would be marked from
same, then the plating would be removed and completed at the punch
machine, etc. All the stern would be taken apart and carted to the
after end of the vessel where it belongs unless the stern was built be-
fore the frames aft were up and f-aired, in that case the stern will be
left hanging to the post until it could be put up in place.
>A harpin bar is usually fitted inside of the cant frames to fair up
the cants in place on the ship. This bar is generally placed level in
line with the knuckle.
Fig. 83 shows an isometric plan of the stern completed by either
method.
In Scotland for'markihg, punching, setting and erecting the stern
complete as shown would cost one hundred dollars ($100.00) while
on the lakes this Would be completed for one quarter of that amount.
CHAPTER VI
KEEL AND CENTER KEELSON
Fig. a shows the center keelson plate marked ready for punching.
The rivet holes are obtained by rpeans of molds made from the
mold loft for the lap, vertical angles and top and bottom bars.
The plate is lined in on both edges to make siire of the width, then
the frame spacing is put on as shown by vertical lines square to the
sides. The butts can be made anywhere in the space between two rivet
holes, care being taken to make sure that there is room for the lap butt.
The plate butt rivet holes are marked with a mold D, the top and bot-
tom holes corresponding with the holes on the plate. This mold must
be applied the same way throughout the center keelson in order to
have the holes in the bottorn angle agree as shown by the zigzag ar-
rangement of the riveting. The rivet holes in the top angles are in a
line and are so arranged that when the mold of the lap butt is turned
over the holes will agree. The holes in the lap butt are all uniform
and square to the butt of plate so that they will all agree with the ex-
ception of the bottom bar holes if the mold be turned over.
There can be no mistake in marking the center keelson plates if
the process is gone through rightly.
When the lines are all put on the vertical angle, rivet holes are
marked with mold F, the top and bottom rivet holes for angles coming
right on the frame space line ; a space mold is then use0 o
• 00
o o
O o o
1=^
t • * ' ° ° ° .
,'00000000000 Q
C oooooaooooo
o o-ooaoooooooo
76
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
3
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
The only change of the frame holes on the keel plate is at the
bulkheads as shown by N, Fig. E. The riveting for the bottom bars
Is arranged by applying the seam mold G on the watertight side of
the center keelson, that is the outer row of holes is applied to the
rivet hole which comes in line with the frame holes.
The other row of rivets is pitched eight diameters apart so that a
space mold is made for that purpose and applied to the plate, the hole
in line of the frame holes
being a guide for same. L
shows the mold used for the
butt holes ; this mold is also
used for marking the straps
with.
The bottom and top angles
are marked with the same
molds as are used for the
keel and center keelson plates.
The frame spacing is put
on the bars same as on the
plates. The center keelson
plate molds for the bottom
will represent the standing
flange of the bottom angles
and the molds used for the
rivet holes through the keel
will be used for the flange to
the keel plates. The top an-
gles for the center keelson
have a uniform pitch through-
out on the keelson plate and
one side of the tank which is water-tight, the other side is 8 diameter
pitch of rivets for connecting the tank top plating to the center keel-
son. The rivet holes on the flanges to the tank top come between the
rivets through the center keelson plate and the holes for the bulk-
heads have only to be taken care of on the side not water-tight.
78 LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
The keel plate liners which are fitted between the keel plate butt
straps and under the center keelson bottom angles are marked from
molds, the holes for same being obtained from the strips which are
used for marking the bar rivet holes in the keel plates. The same
process is gone through for marking this class of keel and keelson
plates in Scotland. The cost of doing this work in Scotland is very
much higher.
A keel plate 30 ft. x 30 in. by one inch thick would cost in Scotland
$7.00 for, marking, punching, rolling and erecting in place.
The center keelson including top and bottom angles for each plate
length, $11.00. On the lakes in both cases the work can be done for
one-third less.
The other parts, such as straps and liners can be done for one-
third less in cost than in Scotland.
Fig. 84 shows main deck stringer plate complete. This plate is
24 ft. by 5 ft. 6 in. by 22 >4 lbs. and butts between frames 97 and 98
and 105 and 106, taking in eight frame spaces and forming top of
side tank.
Frames 100 and 104 are belt frames, the plan, Fig. 84, looking to
the port side of the vessel shows the belt cut-off just above the
stringer plate.
One flange of the channel side frame is cut off to facilitate the
fitting of, the water-tight angles around same.
Fig. 85 shows the method of laying off the plate for main deck
stringer. A line, AB, is put on the plate and the butts and frames
squared from same.
The line AB is parallel to the center line of the ship and a conveni-
ent distance from the ship's side.
In this case the line is 2 ft. 6 in. from the ship's side and the mold
F applied to the frame 104 is nicked on the edge representing the line
AB, as showo at a. The edge nicked is the side to be applied to the
line of frame space which is the heel of flange of bracket plate under-
neath the stringer plate. The mold F is applied to all the frame lines,
as shown on frame 104.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION 79
Separate molds are used for the belt frame angles in this case,
because the belt frame connection to stringer plate is of broader angles
than the flange of the stringer bracket plate.
These plates for 85 per cent the length of the vessel amidships are
straight, so that they are square for that length of the vessel.
When the plates show curve on the edge the mold G, Fig. 85, is
used for making the rivet holes through the stringer plate.
The rounded end of the mold G is applied to the outside line; in
this way the holes come in the place just as if a mold was cut for
every frame where the bevel changes.
Mold E, Fig. 85, shows the method of marking the rivet holes for
the watertight collars fitted between and around the frames.
The inside edge of the stringer plate D, Fig. 85, has a universal
pitch of rivet holes.
Every twelve feet where the double angles come for the belt
frames a change of rivet holes is made in Way of same to suit the
angles.
A batten, two frame spaces in length, is used for the edge of the
stringer plate and stringer angle.
These rivet holes' are so arranged that the rivet holes agree with
the butt holes, as shown in the illustration. Fig. 84.
Lap butt molds are made the shape of the lap aild number of holes
as shown on Fig. 84. The lap butt mold holes are so arranged that
the mold can be turned over and all the holes agree when the mold is
applied, as shown on Fig. 84.
In Scotland the frames would be cut at the deck line, as shown by
Fig. 86, dispensing with the smith work around the channels.
The process of marking the stringer plate would be similar tO'
laying off a shell or gifder plate. The template would be made on
the ship and the inner and outer edges copied on same to get the
correct shape of the plate.
When the plate is placed on ship the inner edge angle would be
lifted from same, punched, erected and riveted before the water-tight
angles are proceeded with and very often the shell plating in way of
the stringer plate must be on and riveted before the water-tight work
is gone on with.
80
LAKE'SHIP YARD METHODS OF
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION 81
That is in a case where shoes are fitted but when a continuous angle
is put on the angle is all riveted before the shell plating is put in place.
The continuous angle on an arrangement of this kind saves labor in
fitting of stoppers where liners pass up between the collars on an
outside strake of plating and there is less chance of leakage when the
continuous angles are used.
The cost of fitting a stringer plate of this description in Scotland,
complete, with stringer angle on inner edge and collars on the outer
edge, as shown by plan, Fig. 84, would amount to $17.00; on the
lakes the price per plate completed would amount to the same price.
The smith work costs double here compared to Scotland, likewise
everything which is done on the same system as done there.
SPAR DECK
Fig. 87 shows part of the spar-deck and sheer strake riveting.
The spar-deck, plating is simply a strip 3 ft. wide between the hatches
for the whole length of the cargo space.
The greater part of the spar-deck is composed of stringers and
made up of two plates, the inner strake next the hatches and the
outer being connected to the sheer strake with angle bars.
The two strakes are connected together at the edges with strips
24 in. wide which is more of a doubling than a strap.
All the deck work as shown on Fig. 87, with the exception of the
24-in. edge plate, is laid out from the mold loft. All deck fittings are
taken care of and the holes punched for same, so that there is no drill-
ing whatever on the vessel. Fig. 89 shows the process of going on
with the beams.
This vessel has a 12-in. tumble home at the spar-deck which de-
creases the width at that point to 54 ft. The camber of the deck-beam
is 12 in. and is obtained as shown by Fig. 89. AC is 12 in. and
perpendicular to the line AB, which is the camber of the beam.
With AC as radius, the quadrant of a circle ACD, is described.
The curved line CD and base AD are divided up into four equal
spaces and the points joined together as shown by dotted lines 1-1,
2-2, and 3-3. The distance AB is the width of the beam at spar-deck
and this distance is also divided up into the same number of spaces as
82 LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
the line AD. The perpendicular lines 1, 2 and 3 on the line AB are
erected for the purpose of transferring the heights, 1-1, 2-2 and 3-3
from the line AD. i
The distance along the dotted lines is transferred to 1, 2 and 3
and a batten passed through same which gives the curve of the spar-
deck beam.
The lines shown running from CD to the camber are simply to
show where the corresponding points are transferred to.
The height 3-3 from AD being angled is higher than the parallel
line D3 on 3 from the line AB.
On the beam mold. Fig. 89, the frames are scratched in as shown by
number 7 which represents number 7 frame.
OODDOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO' OOOOOOOOOOOOOO]
o
o
O
o o
1
OOOOOOOOOOOOOO OOOO OOOO "OOOOO ood
OOOOOOOOO OOOOO OOOO OOOO OO oooooo!
o
O
o
o o
6 o
OOOOOOOOOOOODOOOOOflOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOoOOOOOOOOOoOOOOOOol
—p^,^
The lines A and B show the length of the spar-deck beam from the
hatches to the ship side.
Fig. 87 shows the girders which are run in on the spar-deck, one
just clear of the beam brackets. Fig. 93, and another in line of the
hatch openings Fjg. 92. Fig. 90 shows the molds for these beams ; E
is the mold for the web part of the channel; C mold for channel
girder rivet holes, Fig. 92 ; D channel girder rivet holes, Fig. 93 ; F
shows the mold for the stringer rivet holes, Fig. 87.
Fig. 91 shows the arrangement of rivet holes connecting the beam
and frame together with bracket plate. Fig. 44 shows mold used for
the clips connecting beams and intercostals together.
Fig. 88 shows the mold for the spar-deck plating. This is a half
mold and is turned over the mold being applied to the center line, thus
completing the deck plate from stringer to stringer. The holes
marked B on Fig. 88 are for the bracket rivets connecting the arch
part of the web plate to the deck plating.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
83
• If
T
i^T-
O OQO O O O I
q o o °m ° 5'
O O O O Oi o
O o o D o
I.AKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
O „ » , = CO
U
1
o a
" *
■«
-
O 0, » ■»" =
to'
<
4
»
;
: : ::
: : : :<: i: : :[
m g
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
85
The part marked side is the rivet connection to the inner stringer
plate. The intercostal part of the girder, Fig. 92, deck plate and
stringer are all riveted together as seen by Fig. 87.
The beam framing of this vessel is composed of beam channel,
beam bracket', longitudinal and intercostal girder channels and clips as
shown by Figs. 87 to 93.
The belt frame was shown in Fig. 26 and the figures following it
show the deck parts on same.
Fig. 94 shows the method of marking the outer spar-deck stringer
plate. The inner. edge of the plate EE is taken as a starting part of
the laying off of the plate.
. S/^/9j e £>/^'^^ //^/)f£^ tflKD ge -
3i.
■O O
o o
o o o o
o o o o
€f/^ae^
From the line EE the beam and butts are squared in and the inter-
costals for girders and ship side are lined in parallel to EE.
The mold A is applied to the edge of the plate representing the
ship's side, .which is two frame spaces in length and the rivet holes
are universally pitched so that the mold can be used throughout the
straight part of the vessel.
In the butt spaces a change is made so that another mold is neces-
sary there 6nly.
» The mold B, shows the rivet holes for the connecting of the stringer
to the beam. This mold is applied to the edge EE and as it is the
width of the plate it determines the line at side.
The rivet hole pitch is made to suit the beam No. 99 and the rivet
hole b is rubbed out on this beam and left in on 98 and 100 as shown
86
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
on Fig. 94, this hole being put in to suit the stringer angle pitch of
rivets. Mold C is for the inner edge of the stringer plate, a change
being made at the butts as shown on Fig. 87.
Mold D shows the butt riveting and is used throughout the ship
where the plates remain the same width. G shows the mold for the
intercostals and is applied to the heel of the beam as shown on Fig.
94. Fig. 93 shows the arrangement of the girder on the vessel which
runs under the stringer plate as shown by FF Fig. 94.
The mold G is used for marking the rivet holes on the continuous
channel between the beams as well as the holes through stringer plate.
■Sr '/>/?0''<^'<. O-ri--^ CfiKoa/i -
o o o / /o o o o
OOP / o*
Fig. 97 shows the mold used for marking the intercostals and the
clips for same are marked from mold. Fig. 24.
The shell flange of the stringer angle is marked with the mold A;
it is moved a hole space so that the holes in the root will not come
together. By this arrangement the hole in the shell flange will be
away from the heel, while the hole through the stringer pl4te will be
near to same.
Fig. 95 shows the marking of the inner stringer. The mold A is
used for marking the rivet holes on the outer edge which butts on to
the outer stringer. This edge is used for squaring the beam and butt
lines 90 to 97, etc.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
87
B shows the rivetitig for the hatch coamings in a fore and aft direc- ■
tion and D the holes across the vessel. ■ Mold B is used for all the sides
of the hatches and D which extends , across the vessel as shown by
Fig. 88 at the fore and after end of the deck plate mold. These coam-
ings are 12-in. channels and are connected to the deck .with rivets
about 6 diameters apart.
There are always molds on hand with the different spacing of
rivets, so that it is the practice to use a mold of the pitch desired on
this class of work.
Fig. 40, shown and explained previously, is used for 'hole spacing.
%M—
-/79.98.-
All molds of the different spacings of rivets are always on hand and
very little time is lost in securing the proper pitch to suit any part of
the vessel. '
C shows the beam rivet mold and this is used on every beam where
the plate remains the same width. This mold is worked from the
outer edge of the plate. Where belt frame beams come and have
double angles this mold is turned over for the other flange.
E is the butt mold and is used all through where the plate remains
the same width.
F shows the riveting of the edge of stringer connecting the stringer
and girder channels together. This mold is used for the rivet holes
on the continuous channel under the beams, for the intercostal channel
fitted between the belt frames Fig. 92.
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
Any mold with a universal pitch of rivets eight diameters apart can
be used for this work. When the mold F is used the hole G is put in
instead of the two rivet holes at either side. For all clips used on
Fig. 92 the mold, Fig. 24, is used.
The close pitch of holes between the hatch coamings DD are put
in to suit the deck-plate, Fig. 88, and are for water-tight work.
The deck plating on this vessel is only a strip three feet wide as
shown by Fig. 88.
Fig. 88 is a half of the deck space between the stringer plates and
the whole space between the coamings. The mold is turned over after
the holes in same are marked, the center line being the guide line for
applying the mold to at the center. This half mold suits for marking
all the deck plates between the hatches.
At the ends of the vessel, molds are made for one-half of the ves-
sel. Each mold represents two plates.
The holes are all punched for deck fittings and where mooring
chocks and cleats come on the stringer angle the holes are arranged
from molds to suit same.
Fig. 99 shows hatch corner arrangement. The channel running
across the ship fits in between the channels running fore and aft. The
fore and aft channels are cut the shape of the athwart channels at
both ends as shown by sketch.
Fig. 98 shows the mold for corner angles, the T-shape serving the
purpose of marking a right and left angle. The flange of the clip
looking to the center of the ship is long on top and short at the bottom
to suit the camber of the beam.
Fig. 96 shows the spar-deck stringer beams with a template in
place for copying the stringer plate as practiced in Scotland.
In Scotland the work would not go on as explained on the lake
system, as there is a certain method which is very seldom deviated
from. The beam is taken from the stock pile and bent to the shape
of beam mold.
The camber of the beam is obtained in a similar way to the lake
method, but instead of making molds as done on the lakes, the bevels
are given on a board and the lengths on a batten.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION 89
Molds are made for the deck plating rivet holes as well as the
beam brackets, but the lap holes for the plating are never punched,
being drilled after the inside strakes of plating are in place. The lay-
ing out of the beam is practically the same in Scotland only instead
of making a half mold for the beam, strips are used for the bracket
holes.
The beam brackets are fitted on the vessel when the beam is
faired and the holes drilled in same. Oh this beam there are three
rivets connecting the beam to the frame and in Scotland Only one of
these holes would be punched, the others being drilled when the beams
are faired up.
After the frames are erected the beams are put up and ribbands
run on top fastening the beams to same which are left there until the
beams are riveted to the frames and all the deck girders in place and
riveted.
Fig. 96 shows a vessel ready for the stringer plate to be put up
and the method of copying same. This template is made of pine 6
X 3-16 in. and in length equal to the length of the plate. In this case
the template fits to exact place of the plate only the ends are long.
The butt marks are put on as shown by dotted lines B. This deter-
mines the place of the plate on the ship, care having been taken that
room for the butt strap is secured between the beams.
The rivet holes in the beams are marked on the template with
whitening and when the temj)late is laid on the plate, the marks are
down, the template being on the plate as shown on Fig. 96.
Under the whitening the plate is dampened and by slightly strik-
ing the template with the hand the impression of the rivet holes is left
upon the plate.
By this method of marking the plate it allows all the holes to be
marked and punched on one side and saves turning the plate over to
have the holes with the smooth side next the beam. The beam holes
are punched small and countersunk through, which removes the rag
left by punching on the under side of the plate. Sometimes if the
marker does not have enough of work ahead, he will put up two tem-
plates on the ship and on one end of each will have a piece of tern-
90 LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF .I
^^_^_ i '
plate nailed on representing the butt of the next plate. In this way ||
he will lift all the plates on the strake and make very good and ' :
quick work.
The process of making the inner stringer is similar to the outer,
only the outer plates must be in place before the inside plates can be
proceeded with. 5
After the outer stringer plates are on, a batten is put on and faired I '
in to make sure that the ship's side is true and pleasing to the eye. A
line is nicked in on the stringer plate for the marker to put his tem-
plate to. The sheer strake butts and any fittings which may come on
the angle are painted on the plates or nicked in with a chisel, thus
saving the drilling for same and at the same time getting the rivet
holes in the right place. All the straps and strips are marked from
the ship and any case where there are three thicknesses the holes in
the middle plates are punched a size less and rimed out to the right
diameter of the rivet. The deck plates from stringer to stringer would
also be lifted from the ship by means of a batten wide enough to take ' 1 1
the holes in the belt frame angles and a strip nailed at right angles' to
same for the seam holes.
The belt frames at deck would be straightened up with shores from
the tank top so that the beam angles would be perfectly straight be-
fore the marker proceeded with the work. The hatch coamings would
be lifted from the ship in a similar way to the other work. It will be
noticed that quite a lot of staging is necessary for the men to ' get
around on by this method of construction, to even mark the different j
pieces. The fitting up of the deck work as per plan. Fig. 87, would i"
cost in Scotland $2.50 per foot, while on the lakes this work can be
done for one-third less.
CHAPTER VII
BOW FRAMING AND PLATING
Fig. 100 shows the bow framing plan. Frame No. 11 shows the
collision bulkhead and is laid out as explained previously.
The frames and floor plates are made from molds as heretofore
explained. A mold is made for each piece representing the bow
framing which is composed of frames, beams, stanchions, stringers,
breast-hooks and ridge bars. The spar deck on this plan is simply the
floGr of the forecastle as shown by Fig. 101. The angle stringer be-
tween the forecastle deck and floor of forecastle is the line of the spar
deck. This angle stringer is made from molds supplied from the
mold loft.
A mold is made to the shape of the ship's side and serves the pur-
pose of laying out four angles, two for each side of the vessel. ' These
stringers are not connected 'to the shell plating being only riveted to
the frames on the inside and connected at the fore end with breast
hook.
The mold for the shell shape is drilled for riveting eight diameters
apart and the holes for the rivets connecting the stringers to the
frames are simply gauged from the heel of the angle, care being taken
to have a little more material than the diameter of the hole from the
edge of the hole to the edge of the flange of the angle. Spar deck.
Fig. 101, runs to the shell and is connected to the shell plating with
angle clips the length of the frame space ; an angle is run forming a
stringer bar and connected to the frames in the usual stringer angle
style.
For this deck a mold is made for the tapered plates, stringer angles
and clips to the shell for one side of the vessel and for parallel plates
one mold does for them all. In this case 15 plates are marked from
one mold and two plates from each mold for the balance of the deck
plating.
92
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS
The stringer angle is marked from a mold made to the shape of
the ship's side and the holes for the rivet connections to the frames
are gauged from the heel of the angle. The shell clips are marked
SPAR DECK
from the deck plating molds for the deck riveting and a space mold
for the shell rivet holes. The beams for this deck are marked with
strip molds. One mold for the deck plating rivet holes does for all
ANGLE STRINQER
SPAR DECK
K'T
94
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
BEAMS I2"X203 CHANNELS
MAIN DECK
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
95
the beams by making a change of two holes for the angle connecting
the plating and frames and the shell by connecting the deck and shell
together. This is done by using a mold with a round end as ex-
plained in Article 14, main deck stringer 9, Fig. 85.
The stanchions riveted to beams 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 are marked from
one mold and the holes for ridge bar rivets are gauged to suit the
width of flange of ridge bar.
A mold is made for each beam bracket but one mold serves the
purpose of marking all the rivet holes for same on the beams. A bat-
ten with the width of each beam scratched in is used and a bevel for
the ends furnished on a board. In this way all the beams in the fore
peak are marked as well as the deck. Fig. 101. Fig. 102 shows the
main deck and for this deck plating a mold is made for each two
96
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS
plates or the one side of tlie vessel. The beams, stringer angle and
shell clips are laid out similarly to the deck above.
Fig. 103 shows tlie plan of panting stringers. These stringers
are all laid out from molds as shown by plan.
All tlie angles are marked from the mold made for the plate for
the rivet holes connecting angles to stringer plate. The shell flange
rivet holes are marked with a mold for that purpose to suit the frame
space. Aiolds are made for the flanges of clips to belt frames, brack-
ets and clips connecting face
bars to belt frames, stringer
brackets and beams. Fig.
104 shows the plan of shell
plate starboard HI. Fig.
lO.S shows the shell expansion
forward. Fig. 106 shows a
mold for stem plate.
The stem plate mold repre-
sents the plate, Fig. 104, flat-
tened out which is all there
is to laying out a stem plate
from the mold loft floor.
The plate edges are ob-
tained from a level line about
the center of the plate which
are measured around the heel
of the frame and the lengtli
of tlie plate over the stem is
secured by putting the plate
in the half breadth plan as
shown by Fig. 104. The
flanging of the stem plate is done in the bending rolls so that the
amount of material necessary is easily obtained by flanging a piece of
plate before putting the lines for the plate in the half breadth plan.
The most important thing in lading out a stem plate from the mold
loft floor is to see that care is taken in drilling the holes square in
the stem bar.
U
6 O O
o o o
e o o
e e
o
O o
V> e
e o
o o
o o «
Oct
o o
o o
e e e «
900090
. : s s s 1 : ;
» -f^r'^jut >9-<>. t
- ? ^i^^'^t f
a ■ — yy«z.z) —
B ■
00 e
e
fTtf./oi
— Fi'r.fo^, —
EXPANSION
SHtLL PLATINQ.
^^3" HOLLOW HALF KOUND
INSIDE esOUT
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
The safest plan is to have the stem bar drilled before the reverse
stem plate is laid off, then the mold can be applied to the reverse side
to test the fairness of the drilling of the stem.
The mold shows shell plate HI, starboard and in this case there
is no fear of the stem holes, seeing they are marked from this side
but the holes on the port side of the stem may be angled enough to
make bad holes if care is not taken in drilling the stem.
By this method all the work including the shell plating is laid off
from the mold loft floor.
In Scotland the frames, beams and floor plates are put up and the
same faired up with ribbands as explained in the seventh article on
shell plating and all the different pieces lifted from the boat and
erected in rotation.
The cost of this work is all governed from the midship size of ma-
terial. If Fig. 101 was in line with the spar deck, it would be consid-
ered the spar deck and paid as such. The main deck ends would be
paid the same as at amidships, so with all the different parts.
The bow framing and plating can be done on the lakes one-third
less than by the method practiced in Scotland.
CHAPTER VIII
ENGINE FOUNDATION
Fig. 107 shows the arrangement of stiffening under the engines
also the seatings.
The floor plates are made solid and lightened with holes which
serve the purpose of man holes, being made large enough for a man
to go through. The girders are intercostal and lightened with man
holes so that from the center keelson to the bilge is accessible through-
out the engine space. A shows the thrust stool which is laid down on
the mold loft floor and molds made for same. One mold serves for
two side plates, one mold for all division plates and a mold for top
plate. A batten with a six-diameter pitch of rivets will do for all the
fore and aft angles and for the angles at divisions, a mold of tee shape
similar to Fig. 24 will do for all these clips.
B shows the bearer for bed plate and one is built on each side of
the vessel so that for the fore and aft side plates one mold will do for
four plates, two top plates are obtained from one mold and eight
division plates. All the other pieces are obtained similar to the thrust
stool. C shows the seat for the main feed pump, and is on one side
of the vessel only. A mold is made for each piece, which is composed
of four brackets, top plate and solid frame. D shows the ballast pump
seat and is built on each side of the vessel.
For the ballast pump seat a mold is made for €;ach piece for one
side of the vessel and two pieces are marked from same.
E shows the center keelson which is laid out with strips similar to
the other parts of the center keelson, only the riveting is all the same
with a six-diaineter pitch on both sides through keelson plate, engine
seat plate and keel. One batten will serve the purpose of marking all
the angles and a tee mold similar to Fig. 9 will do for all the center
keelson vertical angles. F shows the intercostals fitted between the
floors. A "mold is made for every intercostal on one side of the vessel,
100
LAKE SHIP YARt) METHODS OF
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
101
Fig. 108, two plates are marked from same. For the lightening holes
a line is scratched in on the mold as shown by AA and BB, Fig. 108,
representing center of same. The vertical angles are marked from tee
mold similar to Fig. 9. G shows the bottom after end of the center
keelson with the floors and frames removed.
The center keelson is not water-tight so that limber holes are
punched above the bottom angles as shown by G.
Engine floor plates are laid out similar to the
_ . belt frames in, the bottom. A mold is made for
one side of the vessel and two plates marked
from same.
Floor angles or reverse bars are laid off with
a batten with a six-diameter pitch of rivets
through the floor and on the top the rivet holes
are arranged to suit the width of plates and
angles for seats.
The frames in the bottom are usually six-inch
channels and are marked after being set and
beveled with the floor mold. H shows the
plating on top of floor plates which forms the
floor of the engine room.
This plating is flanged to the ship's side and
is made watertight.
The frames are cut at the side and run in one piece from the
engine room plating to the spar deck.
The frames are bracketed to the plating which are^ laid off in the
mold loft along with the frames and engine top plating. A mold iS
made for each side of the vessel for the plating similarly to all the
other work after leaving the midship part of the vessel.
Fig. 109 shows the boiler saddles, A shows a section looking fore
and aft and B a view across ships.
Molds are made as shown by plans and all the pieces gotten out
and riveted in place before the boilers are shipped.
In Scotland the frames, floor plates and reverse angles would be
put together and riveted before being put in the vessel, after which
r °
o
o ; o
P
o \
o
o
o
-fyq^loi,
o
1*:..
A_°
o
o
6 i o
o
102
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
they would be bolted to the center keelson and faired up with rib-
bands as explained previously. All the parts outside of the center
keelson and frames, floors and reverse bars would be lifted from the.
vessel.
The boiler saddles would be laid off from the mold loft floor but
the top angles would not be put on until boilers were in place.
It would cost $600 to mark, punch and erect the engine room
work and boiler saddles as per plans, Figs. 107 to 109, in Scotland.
On the lakes this work as shown would cost only half of that amount.
SHELL PLATING AFT
Fig. 110 shows the expanded shell plating aft from the keel to the
bulwarks.
Keel plate, No. 21, is fitted in two pieces the butt coming where
the sfern post begins to taper. These plates are templated from the
ship when all the other plates are in place.
A, No. 20, the second last keel plate connects onto the stern post
and is made in one-piece box shape as shown by Fig. 111.
Fig. Ill shows the keel plates 20 and 21 and the B strake and
frames and floor plates cut off in line with the sight edge of keel plate.
The stem post inway of the keel with shoe part cut off is also seen on
Fig. 111.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
103
Molds are made from the frames inway of keel plate, No. 20 and
to get the proper width of the plate before setting same to shape the
molds are rolled on the plate at the frame lines which determines the
shape of same. After A, No. 20, is bent to shape the holes for the
frames, keel liner, stern post straps and seams are laid off and drilled
without any reference to the ship whatever. The frame liners and
straps are also marked and punched with the same molds used for
marking the plate with. The whole keel is laid off with molds with
the exception of the foremost
and aftermost plates, in this
case No. 1 and 21. B strake
on the stern post is treated
similarly to a stem plate and,
is laid off from stem to stern
post with molds. C, the boss
plate shown by Fig. 112, is
made to shape and marked
from the ship. The bossed
frames are not punched for
rivets until the boss plate is
put up in place and any tap
rivets in the stern post are
drilfed from the boss plate.
All other holes are marked
upon the plate with templates
so that the boss plate is
completed and ready for
bolting up when erected in
place.
D strake is treated the same as stem plates and is laid out from
stem to stern post. E strake connecting on to the stern post is set
to shape and marked from the ship with template wood.
' G, No. 40 and 41, are marked from the ship; No. 41 is made as
shown by Fig. 113 and marked from the ship with template wood.
This oxter plate is very complicated but after it is made to the shape
of the ship the frame lines and edge of the stern post are obtained
104
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
from the solid set made for getting the true form of the plate from
the ship. The gauge marks obtained in this way remove the complica-
tions likely to occur by any other means. Fig. 113 shows part of three
frames, transom, upper parts of stern frame, oxter plate and rudder
trunk.
The two after plates on H strake, after plate on J, three after
plates on K, two on L and one plate next the stern plating on M are
marked with templates from the ship.
Molds are erected on
the ship and faired up for
the bulwark plating also. ,
The rudder trunk A,
Fig. 113, is laid out, fin-
ished and riveted to the
stern post before the post
is erected in place.
Fig: 11^ shows the meth-
od of 'laying out a rudder
trunk, the rudder trunk
being in one piece and
flanged to the transom
floor.
ABCD, Fig. 114, repre-
sents the rudder trunk
connected to the stern post
and plating, looking across
ship.
This trunk is parallel
and is expanding; same is
treated as a beveled pipe.
On the line AB with 3
as center a half circle
is described A, 1, 2, 3, 4,
5. This half circle is di-
vided up into five equal parts and represents the half of the rudder
trunk. The points 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 are drawn in parallel to AC, inter-
secting the lines AB and CD at 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
105
The line AB being square to the stern post this Hne is extended
over to ELG, being made in length equal to the circumference of the
rudder trunk including the flanges to the transom frame.
LF is put in at right angles to
ELG, representing the after end
of the trunk AC.
Around the half circle A, 1,2,
3, 4 and 5, a batten is bent and
the points of intersection 1, 2,
3, 4 and 5 marked upon it
from A.
On the line ELG this batten
is applied, holding the point A
to L, which gives the lines, 1, 2,
3, 4 and 5, which are drawn in
parallel to LF and at right an-
gles to ELK. The line 5 repre-
sents the stern post and ends the
circular part of the rudder
trunk.
The lines 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, in-
tersecting CD are transferred
over to the expanded lines par-
allel to ELG as shown by dot-
ted lines running from CD to 1,
2, 3, 4 and 5, and a batten
passed through these points will
give the desired cut of rudder
trunk from the stern post to the
center of the trunk and by
transferring these points to the
other side the whole trunk will
be completed from 5 to 5 as
shown on line HFK.
The lines EH and GK repre-
sent the edge of the ."itern post
as shown by BD.
- fy shows the width of the top flange and FFi the
bottom flange. The projecting parts beyond EH and GK represent
the flanges for the connection to the transom frame. After the plate
is sheared to the shape shown by the expanded lines the transom floor
flanges are turned, then the parts for the stfern post 55GK and 55EH
108
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS -OF
are set to suit the curve as shown from 5' to B after which the plate
is rolled to the shape of circle, whatever diameter the trunk is made
to. ■ Afterthe trunk is rolled to the circular shape the top and bottom
flanges are turned at the forge. If the stern post is drilled the rivet
holes are punched in the trunk before it is bent.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
109
SHELL PLATING AFT
Fig. 115 represents a rudder trunk wider at the bottom than top.
It is necessary sometimes to build the rudder trunk in this shape
in order. to ship the rudder when the vessel is on the stocks..
This trunk is made in one piece and flanged to the floor plate as
shown on Fig. 114.
A different process is prac-
ticed for ^developing a trunk of
this kind compared to the pre-
vious figure.
Fig. 116 shows the first proc-
ess in laying out a trunk of this
kind.
AB is the top of trunk and
CD the shell line. The line CD
is considered the same for the
width of the trunk nine inches
each side of the center line.
The top of the trunk AB" is
treated similar to the last article,
a half circle is 'described froih
the point 6 and divided up into
eleven parts, the eleventh line
coming on the edge of the stern post and forming the knuckle, for the
rudder trunk at this point. The points 1 to 1 1 on the half circle ^e
squared over to the line AB as shown by the same numbers. , . ' '
At the bottom and a convenient distance from CD the line,.EF,^js
put in and a half circle drawn with 6. as center-, the points E and F
iDeing perpendicular from C and D. The half circle is divided- into
■eleven spaces similarly to the top and the points 1, 2, 3, 4, etc., erected
perpendicular until they intersect the line CD as shown by the num-
bers 1 to 11. , ■
The points 1 to 11 on CD are joined tp the points 1 to 11 on AB
which form parallel lines to AC and BD as shown on Fig. 116. -
_ /^Q //^_
110 LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
Fig. 117 shows the method of expanding the plate for rudder trunk.
A line is drawn parallel to EF, Fig. 116, intersecting 6 on the line
CD after which the line AC is continued until it intersects the new
line at right angles to 6-6 the center of the rudder trunk in a fore
and aft direction. .KLKHH represents a cone similar to the after
half of the rudder trunk only the line XLK is below C and above D,
Fig. 116, but the same width from the point 6 on CD. HH repre-
sents the line AB, Fig. 116, and GL the line 6 or center of rudder.
KLKHH, Fig. 117, represents the rudder trunk turned upside
do^yn and LG the center line.
G is found by continuing the lines KH until they meet at G on
GL and with G as center and GH as radius the line BAB is described
long enough to develop the plate as shown by Fig. 117.
A batten is bent around the half circle A 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8,
9^ 10, 11, B, Fig. 116, and these points transferred to the line BAB,
Fig. 117, measuring from A to B as shown by the same numbers on
both plans. From G to the points 1 to 11, Fig. 117, the lines are ex-
tended long enough to get the length of the trunk on each line as
numbered on both plans.
. By measuring along the lines from AB to CD, Fig. 1 16, and trans-
ferring them to the same numbered lines on Fig. 117 and measuring
from the line BAB gives points for the curved line DCD as shown.
CABD, Fig. 117, is the curved half of the rudder trunk. DF:FB is
the part which is fastened to the sternpost and is found by measuring
from the line BD the line of the stern post. The part projecting be-
yond EF is the flange for connecting the trunk and transom together.
The width of the flange is measured from BAB and DCD as shown
by AAi and CCl It is necessary to get the true form of the trunk
on the shell plating so that the holes may be punched in the shell and
the hole for the rudder stock cut out right.
Fig. 118 shows the method of obtaining the true form of the trunk
opening through the shell.
The line CD is longer than EF, and the lines 1 to 11 are erected
perpendicular to EF dividing same equally on CD. At right angles
to CD the lines 1 to 11 are extended long enough to get points equal
to the distance 1-1, 2-2, etc., from the line EF. Distance from EF
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION lU
to 1-1, 2-2, 3-3, etc., are transferred to the same numbers from the
line CD which gives an oval shape as shown and is the true form of
the bottom of the trunk.
The process of setting and flanging the cone-shaped trunk is simi-
lar to the other, only care must be taken in rolling the plate to the
lines given or the ends will not come together right.
The trunk should be put in the rolls with the line AC parallel to
the rolls. With the exception of the plates laid out with molds the
work is done similar to the Scotch methods and is done as cheaply as
it is done in Scotland.
CHAPTER IX
DECK HOUSES
Fig. 119 shows the deck house aft completed. Fig. 120 shows the
-interior of the after deck house, viz.: The spar deck plating, stair-
way, engine casing, boiler and coal bunker bulkheads and openings,
deck house coaming angle and spar deck beams cut at edge, of same.
Fig. 121 shows plan of steel top of deck house. One mold is made
for half of the longest beam and the holes are so arranged that the
one mold serves the purpose of marking all the beams on the top of
house.
For the lengths of the beams a batten is used for the width of the
house at every beam and the bracket mold is applied to same which
gives the bevel of the beam end as well.
The top angle of the side plating has a universal pitch of rivets for
the deck the rivets coming in line with the beam holes — inway of
same. The same arrangement of rivet holes is made on the outside
angle, which is fastened on the edge of the plating projecting over
the sides of the house.
In this case the centers of the holes are lined in on -the top plating
and the beam hole mold applied to same.
Measurements are given for the curve of the outside angles and
as the rivet holes are universal very little trouble is experienced in
laying out the deck plating with strips.
Fig. 122 shows the starboard side of the after deck house. One
mold serves the purpose of marking all the holes for stiffness and the
holes for the pilasters. The top and bottom angles having a uniform
pitch of rivet holes require only two molds for marking the whole side
of the plating. All that is required for marking the plates are the
widths and top and bottom bevels, one measurement being all that is
■necessary for whatever curve may be in the center of the plate.
STEEL SHIP CONgTRUCTION
113
114
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
1,15
One mold is all that is necessary for marking all the pilasters. The
pilasters are usually left' one-eighth of an inch long top and bottom
and the flange of the angles chipped to remove the slightly beveled
edge on the flange of the angle. Fig. 123, shows the port-side of the
after deck house which is marked with the same molds used for 'the
starboard side.
Fig. 124 shows the fore end of the after deck house which is
treated similarly to the side plating. The butts are all perpendicular
so that the bevel of the top and bottom are worked from same.
Fig. 125 shows the after end of the deck house which is treated
similarly to the fore end, Fig. 124.
To get the proper shape of the deck house plating the heel of
the coaming angle is run in on the mold loft floor as shown by Fig.
120.
Fig. 126 shows the body plan with the other lines removed from
where the heel of the coaming angle rests upon the beams ; the deck ,
house runs from No. 157 to 196 on the spar deck. The after end of
the deck house takes the shape of the beam from the point where the
beam is cut off as shown by No. 196.
It is the same at frame 157, the fore end of the house, the beam
mold being used from side to side as shown by the ending of the line
No. 157.
116
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
A.D.\
I
:/=F ■
ct
/y. iSy '92. 1£C
&£Rfvt Mt,t.a
/J-;*,;,.
-/=7<^./3S
from the templates, after which the plates are punched and erected
in place.
The top angle is then put on binding the sides of house plating
together which are up in place.
The plates at the corners of the houses and tops of doors are then
completed.
The stiffeners are punched, being marked from a mold C, Fig.
138. The pilasters are all marked from the ship but the beams and
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
123
X
>:
— R
y
brackets are marked from molds, Fig. 138. The beam mold, Fig. 138,
shows some widths as numbered.
The beam hole mold, Fig. 138, has the beam lengths marked upon
it as shown by dotted lines and to get the shape 9f the end of the
beam which stands plumb or parallel, to the center line a bevel is used.
The bevel is applied to the beam mold and the line transferred to the
beam angle after which the mold A, Fig. 138, is applied to same the
round end of mold being applied to the cutting line of beam. The
same mold is applied to the I
top of the stiffener, the round
part being held to the top of
stiffener or deck line.
During fte laying out of
the sides of the house the
beams and stiffeners are gone
on with and when the pilas-
ters are on the stiffeners are
bolted up on the opposite side
after which the beams and
brackets are bolted to the
stiffeners. Before riveting
the sides stout timbers are
bolted to the plating length-
wise which keeps the house
nice and fair.
The top of the house is all
marked from the ship after
the beams are in place and
faired up with braces and
shores.
All the houses are treated
similarly. Cost of marking,
punching, beveling,, bending
and erecting houses, is $600
in Scotland and half of same
on the lakes.
./3^_
/-7"p. /■36,
CHAPTER X
MAST MAKING
Fig. 139 shows A, the fore, and B, main mast, of the usual con-
struction on the great lakes. The fore mast is 72 ft. long and the
main mast 69 ft. The diameters at the heels are 19 inches, tapering
to 8>4 inches at the head. The top masts are 10 ft. long and are also
of steel. The thickness of the plating runs from 12i/^ pounds to 7j4
pounds per square foot.
The method practiced for laying out the masts is to line the masts
in on the mold loft floor as shown by Fig. 139. The diameter at each
butt is measured and the same scribed in on the floor as shown by Fig.
140 which represents the two plates of the mast.
Set irons half an inch wide and of the same thickness of the plates
are made to the shape of the half circles shown by Fig. 140. A set is
made for each half at each butt the whole length of the mast and the
center line AB marked upon it. A line is run in on the floor repre-
senting the center of the strake of plates and at the butts of each plate
a line is put in at right angles to same.
The sets are now straightened out and applied to the lines repre-
senting the butts which gives the expanded width of plate at same
and a batten passed through these points gives the half circumference
of the mast at each plate butt.
The lines for the expanded strake are the finished lines and the
inside plates are reduced to suit the smaller circle. Molds are made
for each plate and as the masts seldom vary the molds are always on
hand for a set of masts.
In cases where sometimes the masts are laid out without references
to sets the following method is practiced : The diameter at each butt
is measured from the masts. Fig. 139, the diameter of each half of the
mast being considered separately.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
125
o o o ' o o 06
00 o I o o o
'% o o ' o o o o
5
^
»!f
' ^
I
00 0*0000
o < I o o o
6 o I o o
^ Ai —
^^j:. /itidiH.
J
126 LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
Fig. 140 shows the diameter of the mast without and in strakes
of plating. The outside diameter of the mast at the butt of No. 6
plate is 18 inches at the lower end and 16^4 inches at the top of the
plate. To get the circumference of the mast at the lower butt the
thickness of the plate is subtracted from the diameter of the mast
and the remainder multiplied by 3 1-7 which gives the diameter be-
tween the holes, the landing over the holes being added to same.
Example -''{'^,- = 29^ inches. The top butt of the plate being
inside, the diameter is further reduced; the outside diameter of the
plate is 15% inches instead of 18 inches at the lower butt, then ^^^
= 24.35 inches, the distance between the holes for the half strake of
plating.
The plate between the butts No. 7 plate of the inside strake meas-
urement 17%. inches diameter and the width of the plate between the
holes measures ^4f? = 26j^ inches. Fig. 141 shows a mold made for
plate No. 6 with the dimensions as shoiivn by example; the measure-
ment in the middle corresponds to a straight line so that the holes are
straight from one end of the plate to the other. The holes for the
seam rivets are universal with a pitch of from 5 to 6 diameters from
bottom to top.
The butts are lapped treble riveted with a pitch of 4j4 dijuneter
centers on the greatest diameter. The same number of spaces are
divided off on the inside lap so that when the plates are put together
the holes come opposite each other. No. 6 plate is % inch thick.
The doubling plates shown at D, Fig. 139, are treated similarly to
the inside butt lap, the doubling on the outside plate being cut at the
edge of the inside seam lap and the insjde plate doubling being the
whole width of the plate. The rivet holes have an eight diameter
pitch on the mast plate with the same number of spaces, but closer
pitch on the doubling plate.
The rake is 1^4 inches on the foremast and 1% inches on the main
mast, and Figs. D and E show the method of obtaining the cut of tlie
bottom plates of the mast.
ABCD, Fig. 142, represents the bottom of mast cut off at AB at
right angles to the center of the mast.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
127
The lap of the plate is shown at L and the half circle A, 5, 4, 3,
2, 1, and B is the plan through AB.
On the half circle AB the line is divided up in six equal parts which
gives the lines 5, 4, 3, 2 and 1, being 29^ = 4! inches. These lines
are drawn parallel to AD, which intersects the bottom line of mast CD.
/f*^ - - -
-^
Fig. 143 represents the expanded plates for the bottom of the
mast and the true form of the shape of same where it rests on the
deck or step.
The expansion is obtained by bending a batten around the half
circle A 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1 and B and copying these points on it. The
line AB, Fig. 142, is extended long enough to get in the lines A, 5,
4, 3, 2, 1 and B, which are 4^ apart and at right angles to AB,
Fig. 143. The batten is applied to the line AB, Fig. 143, and tihe
marks for lines put on the floor which are drawn parallel to BC,
Fig. 142.
To obtain the shape of line DC, Fig. 143, the distance from AB,
Fig. 142, to the intersection of the line DC is measured on a batten
and transferred to Fig. . 143 as shown by tracing the lines from Fig.
128 LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
D and E, viz.: DD, 55, 44, 33, 22, 11 and CC which completes the
half of the mast' at bottom to the depth of BC.
Fig. 143 shows the bottom of the mast ABCD expanded. It is
only necessary to develop the half of the plate on each strake as the
mold for same can be turned over for the other half.
Masts which are built flush and butt strapped are treated as three
cylinders one fitting into the other. The strap of the outside plate
will butt up against the seam of the inside plate and the same pitch of
rivets will do for both the strap and inside plate at butt. The strap
for the inside plate will require to be the thickness of the mast plate
less in radius so that the pitch of rivets will require to be closer to
retain the same number of holes. Angle rings on the masts require
a little different consideration than the plate.
Fig. 144 shows a ring 4 in. x 4 in. x 15.7 in. angle, to get the
length of this ring the diameter of the ring is multiplied by 3 1-7 and
twice the width of the flange added to same. Example: "^^-1-8-67-
Fig. 145 shows the length of angle necessary to make this ring.
So that the outside of the flange will be long enough when bent for
the ring to have a close fit, the difference between a circle 19 and
27 inches must be obtained. This is done by adding the width of the
flange to the diameter and using the same rule for the length. Exam-
ple : y+lil2 ^72! equals length of flange outside.
72- — 67^ = 4^, the difference between the standing and hori-
zontal flanges as shown at A, Fig. 145, when a number of rings are
to be made they usually bend one-half of a ring and find out if the
calculation is correct. For an inside angle ring, once the flange, that
is one width of the flange, must be deducted before using the calcu-
lation 3 1-7. Less material is required for a small ring than a large
one, and less material for a ring turned at the fire than at the furnace
where it is bent in one heat.
In Scotland all the mast plates are piled up for each strake begin-
ning at the bottom, number one plate. The plans supplied give the
length and width of plates and diameter of mast at each butt on each
strake. Battens with a universal pitch of rivets of five diameters are
made and applied to the line obtained from the plan for the edge of
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION 129
the plate. The lap butt holes are divided up with compasses, the same
number of holes being punched in the plates which come together.
On plates which may be longer at the ends the batten is moved along
so that the desired number of holes may be obtained to complete the
plate.
The process of laying out the masts is to raise the plate on the
top of the pile enough to get the clip on the plate for holding the lap
strip in place until all the rivet holes are marked.
A center line is put on the plate similar to Fig. 141 and the butts
squared in with a steel T square, also the half length of the plate
where the plate may be slightly curved on the edge if there be much
taper to the mast.
The batten is held to the marks put on for the width of -the plate
and all the rivet holes marked, then between the lap holes the butt cap
holes are divided off with compasses, the same number of spaces being
in both ends only the smaller or inside plate having the rivet holes
closer together, the plate when marked being similar to Fig. C.
When masts are flush with butt straps the straps are all punched
and when the plate is squared off the inside of the strap is lined in on
the plate and the strap held to same. For the difference in length of
the butt strap and width of plate the strap is moved slightly from the
center of the plate so that the end hole will be in its place when the
strap holes are marked. If there is any dotibt about making allow-
ance for the one plate fitting into the other, either in this country or
Scotland, a piece of plate is punched and betit to the outside diameter
then a piece of plate is bent for the inside, fitted, marked and punched,
and on straightening the plates out and putting them together the
proper location of the rivet holes .will be found. To mark, punch, roll
and put together in Scotland the plates and rings of masts like Fig.
139 would cost $72, while on the lakes they cost only half of that. '
CHAPTER XI
ERECTING MATERIAL
Fig. 146 shows the stock yard, the material is laid out in a way
to be easily picked up when needed for marking.
Fig. 147 shows the plate being punched in the punch shop. The
crane for handling the plate is clear of the punch machine which is a
great advantage over the crane built upon the punch machine. With
the greatest of care in building the foundations for punching machines,
through time the machine gets out of plum, likewise everything at-
tached to it. When the crane droops it is very hard upon the men
punching the plates, seeing there is always a tendency for the plate to
slide out of the punch machine. On this crane is a pneumatic hoist
which is very easily manipulated and is capable of lifting 5 tons. Fig.
148 shows the plate finished and being hoisted for erection on the ship.
In hoisting this plate it will be noticed that the crane projects out
over the staging and is considered the most advantageous crane for
ship work. It will be seen that a track runs between the two building
berths so that the material can be distributed the whole length of the
berths, which saves the turning over of material. The material is
laid down all along the berths in a way that when it is needed the
plat,es are hoisted right up to place on the ship without any second
handling.
The track shown on this Fig. 148 is a sample of what is run all
through the ship yard, turn tables being numerous so that the hand-
ling of material by men is almost entirely .dispensed with.
Fig. 149 shows the finishing of a keel plate at the furnace. The
bending slabs it will be noticed are large and quite smooth for this
kind of work.
Oil fuel is used for heating the furnaces and every appliance of
modern ingenuity is on hand to make the work easy for the men on
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
131
the bending slabs. The work from the furnace is going like clock-
work all the year round and compares very favorably with Scotland
in cost.
Fig. 146.
Fig. rSO shows an arch beam being hoisted in plaCe on the ship.
This structure as will be seen is riveted with the exception of the frame
rivets. The deck plate is riveted to the beams as well as all the brack-
ets connecting the beam and deck together.
Three holes at each side under the deck show slots for two chan-
nel stringers and hole for pipes and wires which run along the vessel
under the deck.
As soon as four arch beams are up in place the channels under
the beams are driven in place and the other work follows up in rota-
tion.
The erecting of the keel of this vessel was commenced on May
10, 1906, and Fig. 151 shows the amount of work done in three days.
132
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
The first thing done after erecting the keel blocks is to put up the
keel and bottom shell plating; this forms a staging for the men to
stand upon.
The shell plating is supported by shores of scantling size put in
anywhere to keep the plating about at its height. The center keelson
is next built up and as it is being riveted up the frames in the bottom
Fig. 147.
are placed as well as the deep floors which -form the center keelson to
the main deck as shown by Fig. 151.
Fig. 152 shows the work of erecting a week later. The bottom
framing is all in place to the stern post, rider plates are all on as well
as the main deck stringer for a considerable length of the vessel amid-
ships and quite a number of arch beams.
Fig. 153 shows the work done on May 27, 1906, fifteen working
days after they commenced to lay the keel.
Fig. 154 shows the launching of the vessel, June 30, 1906, 45 work-
ing days after commencing to lay the keel.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
133
BOLTING UP
This term is not understood in Scotland as it is done on the great
lakes.
The riveters do the bolting up in Scotland, while here a gang of
unskilled men are used for that section of the work. For a vessel of
the size just mentioned, it would cost in the neighborhood of three
Fig. 148.
thousand dollars for doing this work and completing that class of
work throughout.
REAMING
Reaming is little known in Scotland because where there are any
unfair holes the plater has to pay for same and as a rule he makes a
deal with the riveter who cuts the hole with tools made for that
purpose.
134
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
On the great lakfes men go over all the rivet holes and try rivets
of the diameter required in every hole and where the rivet does not
enter through all the thicknesses the reaming tool is used to fair up
the rivet hole. In cases where the countersink is affected the hole is
recountersunk and every care is taken to have the holes fair and ready
for the riveters to knock down the rivet.
Fig. 149.
For reaming all the holes in a vessel of this kind the cost conies
close to the bolting up, so that these two items would cost $6,000,
which would not be considered in the items of cost on the Scotch-
built ship.
Reaming has always been practiced on the great lakes and the cost
of same has not been affected through the system, of mold work.
The keel plates and bottom plating being as a rule erected first,
the reaming is all done before the bottom framing is put in place.
With the use of pneumatic tools this work is very simple and the class
of work as far as rivet holes is concerned, is all that can be desired.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
135
RIVETING
As explained in the previous article all the work is bolted up and
the holes examined prior to the riveters starting work. Pneumatic
tools are the principal ones in use on this work and as the rivets are a
quarter of an inch longer for the same work over those for hand work
it goes to show in itself the superiority over hand riveting.
Fig. ISO.
Fig. 155 shows the style of rivets used and formed throughout
on lake-built vessels. ,
A, B, C and D show ^, }i, % inches and one inch diameter rivets
with the countersunk points and pan heads, the points are left slightly
concave as shown by sketches and termed full rivets.
E, F, G and H show the pan head and snap point which is used
everywhere clear of the parts that have to be flush. Table I shows
the diameters, and length of rivets for hand work for two thicknesses
136 LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
of plates; for each thickness of plates over two, % of an inch must
be added to the length of an additional J4 of an inch for machine
riveting.
TABLE I
Table showing diameter and length of rivets, butt straps and overlapped joint breadths for
various weights of plates.
Weight in lbs.
per sq. ft.... 12.5 15 17.5 20 22.5 25 27.5 30 32.5 35 37.5 40
Diameter of Riv-
ets H % a M H % li n % y i" i"
Length of riv-
e t s counter-
sunk points..' lyi lii I'A lyi 1 11-16 1 15-16 2 3-16 2J^ 2}^ 2^ 23< 2T4
. Length of riv-
e t s snap
points Wi 1^ IH 2 2 3-16 2H 2H 2J4 27/i 3 3'A 3\i
Breadth of III
straps 145i 14J4 16J4 165^ 163^ 1654 19 19 19
II straps 8 8 9H 9M 9?4 115< 1154 H'/i 1154
IIII butt laps.. 12 12 12 12 14 14 14
III butt laps... 7yi 7Vz yyi 9 9 9 9- lOJ^ lOJi lOJ^
II butt laps 4'/i A'/i 5 55 6 6 6 6
III edge laps.. T'A 8^ 8'A 8J4
11 edge laps.... 2?4 2% 4'A AV2 4yi 5J4 Syi SVi S% 6 6 6
[ edge laps.... 2Ji 2}4 2^ 2J^ 2^ 3 3 3 3
The width of butt straps and laps are also shown on this table.
Table II shows the number of rivets in laps between the frames.
TABLE II
Minimum number of rivets in edges of plating amidships including rivets in frames.
Spacing Number of Rivets in Each Row.
of Diameters.
Frames. % Vt % 1"
18 4}4 Diameters Fore End
24 7 6 5
36 9 8
The pitch of rivets run for lapped and strapped butt con-
nections 3j^ diameters, water-tight work on center keelson five
diameters, water-tight bulkheads, three shell, six diameters, and stem
and stem posts five diameters. With these exceptions all water-tight
work has a pitch of rivets of 4j4 diameters and the balance seven to
eight diameters. •
The riveting in Scotland, including bolting up, is d'one 40 per cent
cheaper by hand than in this country.
The pneumatic riveting can be done 30 per cent cheaper on the
great lakes than hand work, so that the hand work including the bolt-
ing, up in Scotland can be done 10 per cent cheaper than the pneu-
matic riveting and by adding 20 per cent fpr bolting up shows in
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
137
favor of the Scotch hand riveting 30 per cent over the machine rivet-
ing on the great lakes.
The riveting prices in Scotland are listed in book form and cover
300 items. The riveting price list even takes up cases of rivets com-
ing in way of heels of angles — what is termed bad laying out of the
fitters. The mold system of work prevents any of this kind of work
'"
1
^.._.
^m
^^Y^^^
mu^^
Wast
'$^ ■ f r^' v'^,^. i- "*
P^";^
■m'm
- .--. . _ -j-i-^* "«\
f& I ■ ■-
Aim^i
^^m
Fig. 151.
and the regular pitch of rivets and nice line of same is clearly shown
throughout on a vessel built from molds.
Fifty items cover all the prices on lake-built vessels in the riveting
because there is nothing covered up in a way to make it awkward for
the riveters to get at the work.
The keel plates, liners and straps, keel angles, center keelson plates
and top angles are erected and riveted before the frames are put up.
The frames are all riveted on the ground including the center
keelson vertical angles and beams, the only exception being at the side
138
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
stringers ; one clip is left until the intercostals are in place which are
put in as soon as the frame is hoisted. The belt frames are also riv-
eted up on the ground from the keel to the main deck, only one of
the clips at the stringers and the lap which comes on the tank top
angle being left unriveted until the belt frames are erected. The seam
connecting the belt frame at side to the bottom is left until the work
has been examined and proven fair on the top sides. The arch plate,
Fig. 1S2.
the top of the belt frame, is also riveted on the ground including the
deck plate between the hatches and all connections on same; the
frame rivets and one of the clips for the continuous channels are all
that are left to be riveted in place.
At the ends the frames with all the component parts are riveted
on the ground and when erected the frame is placed in place com-
plete. The side stringers and breast hooks are riveted together in a
way so that they can be gotten between the beams. The collision bulk-
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
139
head is also riveted with all the parts and erected in place complete
so that very little is left to rivet when the peaks have the material in
place. All the skeleton work on the spar deck follows up after the
frames are erected and riveted up before any of the stringers are put
on, which leaves no odd work' whatever to do when the decks are com-
pleted. The girders and intercostals in the bottom follow up as soon
as the frames are erected and this work is all cleaned up including the
Fig. 153.-
shell plating before the tank top plating is put on. This work follows
up so closely that the tank top is on and riveted within 12 ft. of the
girders and shell plating and as the ballast piping is shipped along
with the girder plates there is no delay for the tank top on that ac-
count and all the work is thoroughly cleaned up in the tanks before
being covered in and very little cleaning out of the tank is necessary
with this arrangement.
140
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
On tlie sides of the vessel all the work is also cleaned up before'
the shell or tank at side is put on, thus cleaning up all the inside work
before covering same up.
The shell hand riveting costs in Scotland including bolting up,
for five-eighths diameter $1.74, three-quarters diameter $1.98, seven-
eighths diameter $2.22 and one-inch diameter rivets $2.70 per hun-
dred.
Fig. 154.
The inside work runs about three per cent less for the straight
away work.
On the great lakes $2.50 is paid for five-eighths diameter, $3.00
for three-fourths, $4.00 for seven-eighths and $5.00 for inch rivets
without any bolting up.
The inside work runs the same for flush work by hand. All ma-
chine work is 30 per cent less than hand work not including bolt-
ing up.
STEEL SHIP. CONSTRUCTION
141
142
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
CALKING
Calking on the great lakes is all done by pneumatic tools and is
finished for one-third the price of hand work.
The hand work in Scotland would cost for calking overlapped
work on shell 10 cents and edge and edge 12 cents per yard, tank
top TYi cents, and decks 6j/^ cents per yard; on the great lakes the
cost would be the same.
Fig. 156.
Calking by machine on the lakes costs 3 cents and edge and edge
work 6 cents per yard. Chipping costs in Scotland 5 cents per foot
for each one-eighth in thickness and by machine on the great lakes
costs half the same.
The chipping and calking by hand on the great lakes are'the same
as in Scotland but the machine calking is one-third only and the chip-
ping one-half of the cost of hand work.
TANK TESTING
The center keelson and divisions at the ends of the tanks are made
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
143
water-tight and come under a pressure of about eight pounds per
square foot.
The air pipes are used for the head and a hole is drilled in same
about 16 feet above the tank, or any height specified.
The water is pumped up until there is a stream from the drilled
hole in the air pipe. The stream of water runs into a pan or is run
Fig. 157.
over to the side of the vessel not under test. This pressure is held
until the center keelson, divisions and tank top are carefully examined
after which the tank is passed as O. K.
In Scotland a pan is usually fastened to the top of pipe and water
is run in until it is filled to top, the water is expected to remain in
the pan during the examination of the divisions and tank top. The
same precautions are taken on the great lakes as in Scotland in look-
ing out for stoppers, etc.
The cost of doing this work on the great lakes runs about the
same as in Scotland.
144
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
The construction in Scotland is somewhat different than the great
lakes in the greater part of the vessel.
Fig. 156 shows the center girder and keel plate erected in place
and riveted. The riveting is done by hydraulic machines, which is
considered better for closing up the material than the air. The rivet-
ers will close the material up by placing the dies of the machine on
the material which acts similar to a clamp seeing the machine spans
the center keelson, as shown on Fig. 156.
Fig. 158,
The same power is used as if a rivet were to be driven, then the
bolts at either side of the machine are tightened up, which takes up
any loose material. This, of course, suits the system, because the
riveters are responsible for bolting and closing up the material, while
on the great lakes the work is all bolted up and ready for the riveters
to proceed with their work. The closing up with the machine is not
necessary on the great lakes.
The vessel shown in this article is very much heavier than the one
built on the great lakes and referred to in these articles. But will
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
145
serve the purpose of describing the method practiced in Scotland see-
ing it is of a late issue.
This vessel is 672 ft. 6 in. by 72 ft. by 52 ft., and in the construc-
tion of same 12,000 tons of steel is used, with 1,800,000 rivets to
fasten same.
The great lakes vessel, 552 ft. by 56 ft. by 31 ft., has 3,600. tons
of steel in construction and 550,000 rivets.
Fig. 159.
The time from when the keel was laid until launched in Scotland
was one week less than a year, and on the great lakes seven and one-
half weeks.
The keel of the vessel shown in Fig. 156 is flush on the under side
the entire length of the vessel, which is considered a great conveni-
-ence in docking the vessel. The keel is built up of three thicknesses
of plating 55 in. wide with a combined thickness of three inches.
The center keelson is five feet deep, over one inch thick and fas-
tened to the keel plate and tank top with heavy angles.
146
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
The keel plating is reduced at the forward and after ends. The
keel plating and center keelson is erected with a movable crane, as
shown on Fig. 156.
Fig. 157 shows the bottom framing with margin plates on from
the fore end of the engine room to the after end of the vessel. Al-
though this is the most economical way in building the vessel so that
the engine work can be gone on with, yet it is necessary to build a
Fig. 160.
vessel this way where there are no overhead cranes so that the road
will be clear for the cranes as shown in Fig. 157.
In erecting the floors which are completed and lying along the
ground at the ship's berth the movable cranes are used for that pur-
pose, as shown by Fig. 157 on each side of the keel.
The frames, it will be seen by Fig. 157, are in two pieces on each
side of the center keelson in ^vay of the engine, as the water bottom
is carried up higher on the ship's side, the tank margin in way of
same becoming a girder.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
147
Fig. 158 shows the forward part more fully completed, with some
of the tank top plating on, also the margin angle and clips for top
side frame brackets.
In the process of getting the bottom framing in place a ribband is
run just immediately under the margin plate shown by Fig. 157 and
shored up to the height so that when the frames are erected they rest
upon the ribband and are supposed to be in place. At the ends where
Fig. 161.
the floors are shorter the ribband is put on after the floors are in place
and not until the ribbands are fastened to the frames and line of the
bottom checked is the bottom work proceeded with. All the work
with the exception of the keel and center keelson is marked from
the ship and erected as soon as the bottom is faired up.
Fig. 158 shows the result of all these pieces being put together.
Fig. 159 shows the work further completed and a tunnel built on the
tank top. These conduits are as a rule laid out in the shop prior to
erecting same on vessel.
148
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
The conduit work is put upon the tank top and erected with gin
poles as shown by Fig. 159.
Fig. 160 shows the erecting of the side framing, which is com-
posed of channels nine inches deep amidships, and angles and reverse
bars at the ends. The frame spacing is 32 in. amidships and 27 in.
at the ends. The belt frames are spaced six frame spaces apart
beyond and five frame spaces in the boiler and machinery spaces.
Fig. 162.
Belt frames are 30 in. deep and Yi in. thick, with frames double
to shell and heavy face bars continued from tank top to main deck.
The bottom framing is composed of floor plate and angle; the angle
is jogged over the shell plating inway of the inside strakes in the
double bottom. The beams are erected along with the frames, as
shown by Figs. 160, 161 and 162.
Fig. 161 shows the engine room with framing up abaft same. The
poles at each side are for hoisting the frames and beams to place.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
149
Fig. 162 shows the framing and deck beams amidships. Fig. 163
shows the bow framing and Fig. 164 the stern framing. These frames
at both ends are bunched together until the stem and stern post are
fixed in their places. Fig. 165 shows the upper decks and openings
Fig. 163.
over the machinery space. Fig. 166 shows the bridge and shelter
deck construction forward.
Fig. 167 shows the machinery compartment during construction.
The forest of shores will be noticed inside of the vessel during con-
ISO
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
struction and how much could be saved by having the material all
made from the mold loft.
Fig. 168 shows the boiler room with the seatings completed for
the boilers, as well as the great number of shores supporting the decks.
The shell plating runs an inch thick and has an average width of
five feet amidships; it is lap-butted and almost entirely quadruple
riveted.
Fig. 165.
The four top side strakes of the plating of the hull are double
strapped and quadruple riveted.
Within the range of the double bottom the shell is also double-
strapped* treble riveted inside, and double riveted outside and the
butts of the keel plates are treble riveted.
Wherever possible, hydraulic riveting was resorted to, and even
before the rivets were put in, the plates and angles were forced and
held together by hydraulic power, so that the temporary bolts and nuts
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
ISl
Fig. 164.
152
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
would bring the surface as closely together as possible before riveting.
In this way there was absolutely no possibility of yielding when the
rivets were put in. The work done by hydraulic power includes the
center girder, keel-plate garboard strake, the center strake of the
inner bottom, the intercostal girders, the end frames to the reverse
angles of beam-knee brackets, the bridge-deckshear strake, the shel-
ter-deck stringer angles, and the side stringers between the web-
frames. The rivets in the shell and tank top plating vary from %.
Fig. 166.
in. to ly^, in. in diameter, spaced on an average four to five diameters
apart. In the bulkheads the sizes generally are %■ in. in diameter,
spaced four to five diameters apart; the deck rivets are ^ in., spaced
generally four to five diameters apart. The riveting machine was, as
is shown in several illustrations, carried on a beam, having on its
other end a counter-balancing weight. This beam was supported in
the center upon a lattice-built column running on wheels, or on a
small track running on a railway track which was laid on each suc-
cessive deck as soon as there were beams to carry it.
The ten plates, 169-178, will give an idea of time taken in build-
ing the largest vessel in the world described by The Engineer last year.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
153
The Cunard express steamer Mauretania is in length over all 785
feet, length between perpendiculars 760 feet, breadth, extreme, 88 feet,
depth molded 60 ft. 6 in., gross tonnage 33,200 tons, net tonnage
11,900 totis, maximum draught 37 feet, displacement at maximum
draught 43,000 tons.
Fig. 169 shows midship portion of structural cellular bottom of
vessel done in November, 1904. The whole of this part of the struc-
FiG. 167.
ture, including the bottom shell plating, is riveted by hydraulic pres-
sure, and from this view, as well as several of the others, a good idea
may be gathered of the method of carrying out the work, and .the
heavy tools employed in doing it.
The floors with bars attached, having been riveted together, are
brought into position by means of the five electric overhead cranes
with which the covered in berth is equipped and are riveted to the
center keelson by means of large gap hydraulic riveters, these having
154
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
gaps up to six feet. These machines are carried by light swinging
jib cranes fastened to the columns of the covered berth. These swing-
ing cranes are portable, and can be easily transported by the electric
overhead cranes and fixed anywhere required. The overhead cranes
are, of course, much in demand for transporting and erecting the
heavier items in the structure.
Fig. 168.
Fig. 170 shows work done in February, 1905, which includes the
double bottom side framing and portions of stem bar in position.
Fig. 171 shows the work done in April, 1905, and is a view from
the after end, showing the forward portion of the framing erected,
and the inner bottom partly plated.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
155
The double bottom, as will be seen, extends well up the round of
the bilge for the sake of increased strength and increased safety. As
may also be seen, from this and the other views, the franling consists
of channel bars and deep web frames closely spaced. This feature is
even better brought out in Fig. 172 which also illustrates clearly the
mode of suspending the hydraulic riveting tools already referred to.
Fig. 169.
The framing in this view, as will be seen, has been completed to the
stem and the transverse and longitudinal bulkheads are erected to
level of lower deck.
Fig. 173 shows a view from aft with frames and beams in position
up to engine room. This view gives a good idea of the overhead elec-
tric and side swinging jib cranes and clearly shows the channel frames
and web frames, also the deck beams in the position as far as the
machinery bulkhead. The great height of the covered-in berth stand-
1S6
I.AKIC SHI)' YARD Ml'.TllDDS Ol'
ards, and the runners with electric overhead cranes soniewliat dwarf
tlie height of this great vessel itself.
Fig. 174 shows a vitally important part of the huge liner, and at a
highly interesting stage of the work of construction. This is a view
from aft, and exhibits the frames as they approach the stern post, and
Fig, 170.
the bossing necessary for the outside propeller shafts, also the sweep
up of the "deadwood" to meet the fore end of the stern post casting.
Fig. 175 shows the stern framiiif^ on Jan. IS, 1906. Fig. 176 is a
bow view on May 5, 1906. Fii,'. 177 shows the bow near completion
on Sept. 6, 1906, and Fig. 178 shows the stern on same date two weeks
before launching.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
157
This vessel was launched on Sept. 20, 1906, but is not yet in com-
mission. She was built at the ship yard of Swan, Hunter & Wigham,
Richardson Ltd., Wallsend, England. A sister ship of the Maure-
tania, the Lusitania, was launched from the Clydebank ship yard,
Glasgow, Scotland, on June 7, 1906.
Fig. 171.
158
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
Fig. 173.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
159
Fig. 174.
CHAPTER XII
THE ADVANTAGES OF MOLD WORK
The greatest advantage derived from the mold system is the con-
tinual working of the machinery in the punch shop from the beginning
to the launching of the vessel. This cannot be accomplished on a
single vessel by the old method of lifting the work from the ship.
Fig. 172.
Where two or three vessels are building at one time the punch shop
tools may be kept going continuously, but otherwise on the old system.
The despatch of the building of a vessel depends entirely -on the
output of the punch shop and when six men can furnish work for 13
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
161
punching machines working night and day it goes to show the advan-
tage of the mold system.
With the mold system of laying out the material, two building
berths are arnple for any large concern, because in a few days after the
punch shop work is done the vessel' can be launched, providing the ma-
chinery space of the vessel has been got ready for the engine and
boiler builders to get. same installed. In the mold system any part of
the vessel can be built first so that there is no trouble in getting the
engine and boiler space ready first. The riveting as explained is well
cleaned up so that no odd
work is left, which is a large
item both in economy and de-
spatch.
The ribbanding of a vessel
is quite an item and is prac-
tically dispensed with on the
great lakes. The bottom
plating is put up along with
the keel plating and center
keelson as shown b.y Fig.
179. The bottom of the ves- ' Fig. 181.
sel has a rise of three inches in the width and this is taken care of as
shown by Fig. 179.
A straight edge is held to the underside of the keel plate and the
difference measured at D strake, the ending of the straight line. The
keel plate and liner measure approximately two inches and D strake
and liner one and one-quarter inches, so that the height above the keel
162
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
Fig. 175.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
163
Fig. 176.
164
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
plate will measure three and three-quarters inches at end of straight
line where the curve of bilge commences, shown by Fig. 179. In this
way the bottom is tested as regards the rise oi floor.
Very little trouble is experienced ■ in fetching the - bottom to the
proper rise because the bottom framing is all riveted on the ground
. Fig. 182.
Fig. 183.
prior to erecting and when fastened to the center keelson pulls, the
shell plating in place if it should be nearer a straight line than the
rise designed.
When the plating is put upon the bottom the straight edge will be
used every hundred feet so that the plating will require less bolting
up when the framing is placed on the plating than when wholly de-
pendent on the eye. To hold the plating in place shores of scantling
size are used which serve the purpose until the bulk of the bottom ma-
terial is in place.
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
165
The top sides are proceeded with as soon as the margin plate is
on. The belt frames are erected and all the lengthway parts run so
that the frames are attached to same, the longitudinal parts serving the
purpose of ribbands.
The deck work follows in
the same way and as soon as
the arch plates are iii the
girders under the deck are
run and the beams are rested
on and bolted to same.
The intercostal work is all
riveted Up, then the shell and
stringer plating is erected in
place without the aid of either
shores or ribbands.
The erecting of the ma-
terial where all the parts can
be completed effects a sav-
ing, in time and cost and the
wood work can be got out
complete from the lines,
which finds more accurate -
steel work and makes better
work of same.
The shoring of a lake vessel is not elaborate compared to the ves-
sel built for end-on launch. Fig. 179 shows all the shoring there is to
g. vessel built. on the lakes; the shores have the same spacing as the
keel blocks and remain until the vessel is about to be launched. ■
Cribs, about four on each side, are built, under the bilges and this
is all that supports the vessel until she is launched. The vessel being
launched sideways sits plumb on the keel blocks so that the bracing
and shoring is not required like the vessel built to a declivity. The
vessel built plumb from the keel blocks has a great many advantages
over the vessel built with a declivity. Fig. 180 shows two vessels, A
Fig. 184.
166
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
Fig. 177.
STEEL SHIP COI^STRUCTION
167
Fig. 178.
168
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
built for side launching and B for end-on launching. The vessel B
for end-on launching is 25 feet higher at the bow than the vessel A.
It is a well-known fact that men will do more work nearer tlie ground
than too high above it.
The use of declivity battens and plumbs for the end-on launching
are more troublesome than the plumb and level when the vessel is built
Fig. 185.
on the old style, but with the mold system it would make little differ-
ence, seeing that after the first few frames were erected to position
the material would work into its own place.
The laying out of ship work in the ship yard is somewhat behind the
structural iron work on a large building. I superintended the 16-story
Rockefeller building in Cleveland, O., for the owner, which was
designed by Knox & Elliot, of Cleveland, O., and I was surprised to
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
169
see 2,000 tons of material laid out with a steel tape, and the class of
work would put the ship builders to shame. I tested every rivet in
the .building and only found half a dozen slightly jarred rivets in the
whole lot. Fig. 181 shows the steel work above the sidewalk on June
16, 1904. Fig. 182 shows the work done on August 13, 1904, nearly
a month later. Fig. 183 shows the steel work practically completed on
Fig. 186.
Sept. 24, 1904. For erecting the steel of a building of this size three
months is considered the time. Fig. 184 shows the building nearly
completed April 17, 1905.
REPAIRING VESSELS'
Some very large repairs have been done on the lakes with economy
and despatch. Fig. 185 shows the starboard bow repairs to the
steamer R. L. Ireland in dock at Superior, Wis. Fig. 186 shows the
170
LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS OF
STEEL SHIP CONSTRUCTION
171
port side of bow of same vessel,
of R. L. Ireland in the dock.
Fig. 187 shows port side stern view
THE PIONEER IN MOLD WORK.
At the 'Naval Architects and Marine Engineers' seventh annual
meeting, Nov. 16, 1899, Mr. W. I. Babcock, then general manager
of the Chicago Ship Building Co., and now of the firm of Babcock &
Penton, engineers and naval architects, Cleveland, O., read a paper
on "Ships of the Great Lakes," in which he described the work he was
Fig. 187.
doing on the mold system and the amount of same. I had consider-
able dealings with Mr. Babcock at that time as I was engaged by the
owners to look after -their interests on vessels building by Mr. Bab-
cock at Chicago.
172 LAKE SHIP YARD METHODS
My dealings with Mr. Babcock were very pleasant and, interesting,
for he was always improving on and simplifying the ancient methods
of ship building.
Mr. Babcock was very modest in his paper at that date, for he
simply came out as one of the builders on the great lakes, when he
was the only one who had ventured so far on mold work and under
the severest criticism from the knowing ones who predicted all kinds
of misfortunes ahead of him for daring to cast aside the old methods.
At the writing of this paper Mr. Babcock did not favor the laying
off of the bilge strakes from the mold loft, but later he did this,
and made very good work of it.
The comparing of the foregoing chapters with Mr. Babcock's
paper will show that he was well ahead of the times.
Mr. Babcock ended his paper, by saying, "As a matter of personal
opinion, however, after an experience covering the construction of
some thirty ships of large size under the mold system, the writer
thoroughly believes that this system is the cheapest known and can be
applied to a large extent with great advantage in any yard where
large ships are built, of any type." Today shows how clearly Mr.
Babcock saw ahead of him. Mr. Babcock is one of broadest, bright-
est and most unselfish men in the business, and he deserves great
credit for advancing the mold system and pneumatic tool work on
the great lakes.