Print

Please login or register.
1 Hour 1 Day 1 Week 1 Month Forever
Login with username, password and session length.

[RHBAKER]

Will be starting a build of one of these vessels shortly.
The build seems fairly straighforward, but examining the drawings raises a question.
About mid-ships there is a structure that fits onto the upper outer surface of the hull adjacent to the deck line.
Does anybody know what it is for, it does not appear to be a vent or exhaust?   

[BrianB6]

It does not seem to be well drawn.
On the photos it appears to be hull protection of some kind.

[BrianB6]

Model Boats March 2011 had an article on the construction of the Nautical Marine Models kit of Dark Biter which shows a plastic moulding on the side of the hull.

[raflaunches]

I wonder due to its location next to the torpedo tube it’s actually a strengthener for the tube or a protective section for the hull to prevent damage from the tube?

[Colin Bishop]

I think Nick is right, it is a strengthening frame. There are some clearer photos here: (also includes an interesting animation of the Deltic engine with opposed pistons.)

http://dave-mills.yolasite.com/saro-dark-class-mtbs.php

The hull construction was wood on alloy frames.

Colin

[RHBAKER]

Thanks all for your help.
Think the most likely reason is as a strenghtening frame.
Earllier versions of MTBs and PT boats experienced stress cracks in this area. This occured when pounding into waves.
Think this, along with the proximity to the torpedo tubes, probably caused the designers to add this structure as a precaution..
If ever hear to the contrary will advise.