Glossary

ABANDONMENT
Giving up the proprietary rights in insured property to the underwriter in exchange for payment of a constructive total loss
ACETONE
Solvent particularly effective for cleaning tools soaked in uncured resins and for preparing a GRP surface before further laminating
ACTUAL TOTAL LOSS
This occurs when: the insured property is completely destroyed; the assured is irretrievably deprived of the insured property; cargo changes in character so that it is no longer the thing that was insured e.g. cement, water damaged becomes concrete. A ship is posted "missing" at Lloyd's.
ADVENTURE
The exposure of property to risk
AERODYNAMIC
Term relating to the behaviour of air (or other gas) under conditions of motion
AFT
Toward, at, or near the stern
AIR PIPE
Fitted to water ballast and oil tanks and led to the upper deck to allow the escape of air when the tanks are being filled
ALLOWABLE STRESS
Design-targeted maximum stress in the material of a structure; less than the material's breaking strength in order to provide a factor of safety
ALLOY
A mixture of metals plus, usually, non-metallic elements
ALOFT
Up the mast; high up
AMERICAN BUREAU OF SHIPPING [ABS]
A classification society that provides a service in regulating the construction and equipping of vessels
AMID SHIPS
The portion of the ship at half its length
ANGLE OF SHEAR
Angle of distortion resulting from shearing stress
ANGLE SECTION
Stiffener, manufactured in long lengths and usually in metal, the section being of L form
ANISOTROPIC
Term describing a material that possesses directional properties, notably strength and stiffness
ANNULAR GROWTH RINGS
A tree's growth rings, approximately circular in form, as seen in a tree section
APPROVED
An "approved" vessel is one which the underwriters deem adequate to carry the insured cargo, at the agreed rate of premium.
ARAMID FIBRE
A synthetic, long-chained aromatic polyamide fibre possessing high tensile strength
ARBITRATION
Method of settling disputes which is usually binding on the parties concerned.
ARGON ARC
Metal welding process in which the weld is surrounded by the inert gas argon
ASPECT RATIO
Ratio of length to width; greater to lesser spacing of frames and longitudinals
ASSIGNMENT
The passing of beneficial rights from one party to another
ASSURED
Party indemnified against loss by means of insurance
ATHWARTSHIPS
At right angles to the centre-line of a boat
AT THE FLYWHEEL
Indicating that measured engine power is gross, not accounting for the energy used to rotate the transmission or the engine's ancillaries
AUXILIARY BOILER
Used for duties other than main propulsion but may still be very large boilers as found on tankers when cargo discharge is done using cargo pumps driven by steam turbines.
AVERAGE
A marine partial loss.
AVOIDANCE
The right of an underwriter, in the event of a breach of good faith or delay in commencement of an insured voyage, to step aside from the insurance contract and to treat it as though he never accepted the risk
BACKBONE
Main centreline structural assembly of a yacht of traditional wood construction
BACKSTAY
Stay running from high up the mast to the aft end of a yacht, in order to restrain downwind sail loads
BACKSWEPT SHROUDS
Shrouds attached to the hull aft of the mast step rather than in line with the mast athwartships
BALLAST
Any solid or liquid weight placed in a ship to increase the draught, to change the trim or to regulate the stability
BALLAST KEEL BOLTS
Fastenings used to attach the ballast keel to the hull of a yacht
BALLAST TANK
A watertight compartment to hold water to improve the ship's stability
BANK GUARANTEE
An undertaking given by a bank to pay a claim sometime in the future should the Member be found liable and the undertaking is provided by the bank for the Association.
BARGE
A flat-bottomed vessel for carrying cargo.
BARREL
Effect in which the section of a relatively short compressive member increases when the material exceeds its elastic limit
BATTEN
To "batten down" is to secure the hatchway tarpaulin
BEAM
Fitted in the fore part of a ship to prevent vibration
BEAM SHELF
Substantial structural member, used for boats of traditional wood construction, fastened along the upper edges of the hull
BEAM THEORY
Engineering theory that permits a prediction of the structural behaviour of a beam under bending loads
BEDDING COMPOUND
Putty-like material used to aid the fit and watertightness of non-glued joints
BENDING
Consequential curvature in a structural member, as a result of loadings perpendicular to the axis
BENDING MOMENT (AT A SECTION)
Sum of the moments about the section of all the forces acting to one side or the other of it
BERTH
Where a ship is tied up or docked or a place to sleep aboard
BIAS
Direction in a fabric at 45 degrees to the warp and weft
BILGE
Curved portion between the bottom and the side shell plating, drainage space within the ship
BILGE STRINGER
Longitudinal positioned at the bilge
BILL OF LADING
A receipt for the cargo received into the care of the carrier must be issued to the shipper by the carrier. 1. Evidence of the contract of carriage 2. Title to the goods 3. Receipt for the goods
BIMETALLIC CORROSION
As galvanic corrosion
BLOCK COEFFICIENT
Ratio of the underwater volume of a vessel to the cuboid that surrounds the volume
BODY PLAN
A drawing depicting the sections of the hull
BOLLARD
Fitted for the purpose of securing ropes
BONA FIDE
In good faith, without fraud or deceit
BOTTLESCREW
Device used to adjust the tension of shrouds and stays
BOW LINE
As for a buttock line, but forward of amidships
BOW'S NOTATION
System of analysis in which the loadings in the members of a space- frame may be represented by a complex, complete vector diagram, the spaces and vectors being labelled appropriately as an aid to its construction
BRAKE POWER
Power of an engine at the flywheel
BRITTLE
Term describing a material apt to fracture readily when subject to a sudden load
BOWTHRUSTER
An additional motor driven propulsion unit to provide transverse movement.
BROKER
A person who transacts the business of negotiating between merchants and ship owners respecting cargoes and clearances, or one who effects insurances with underwriters
BUCKLE
Failure of a strut when not in column
BULBOUS BOW
A ship, which has a bulbous profile, which improves the speed and efficiency/characteristics of the vessel.
BULKHEAD
A crosswise/longitudinal division of a ship
BULWARK
The plating fitted for protection at the sides of a ship on and above the weather deck
BUNKER
Ship's fuel
BUOYANCY
Upthrust, as a result of water pressure; for equilibrium, the buoyancy of the hull is equal to the weight of the vessel
BUOYANCY TANK
Watertight compartment in the hull intended to provide buoyancy when the hull is otherwise filled with water
BUTTOCK LINE
Imaginary line on the hull resulting from a vertical cutting plane aft of amidships and parallel to the centerline
BUTT
Meeting of two planks or other members end to end
BUTT JOINT
Joint formed between the ends of two members that come together but do not overlap
BUTT STRAP
Member that bridges a butt joint, providing strength
CALL
The premium charged by a P & I Club
CANTILEVER
Fixed-end beam, otherwise unsupported
CARBON (FILTER)
Treated polyacrylonitrile fibre, with high strength and modulus
CARGO INTERESTS
Parties having an interest in the cargo.
CARLING
Construction member running fore and aft to give support to the inner ends of half beams in way of the superstructure
CARRIER
Operator or charterer of a ship, usually a ship owner
CARVEL
System of wood hull construction in which the planks are laid flush and edge-to-edge
CATALYST
Chemical agent that initiates the curing of polyester resin (in context)
CATENARY
Curve, and hence structural configuration, of a flexible member subject to a uniformly distributed load and resisted by placing the member in tension
CAULKING
Process in which caulking cotton is forced in to the seams, primarily for water-tightness
CAULKING COTTON
Bundled cotton fibres, available in long lengths, for caulking
CAULKING IRON
Tool used for driving in caulking cotton
CENTRE OF EFFORT
Centre of force of the wind in the sails, usually considered when sailing upwind
CENTRE OF GRAVITY
Point at which the weight of an object may be considered to act
CENTRE OF LATERAL RESISTANCE
Centre of force of the water on the hull, keel and rudder combination
CENTRIFUGAL SEPARATORS
Used on ships to treat fuels and lubricating oils. They spin at very high speeds, typically 6000 rpm and separate out water and solids.
CERTIFICATE OF ENTRY
A document issued by the Association which records the names of Members interested in, and is evidence of a contract of insurance in respect of, an entered ship.
CENTROID
Centre of an area; centre of gravity if the area were represented by a material of consistent thickness
CESSER
When a term comes to an end.
C-FLEX
One-off GRP construction based upon longitudinal glass fibre-resin rods
CHAINPLATE
Fitting enabling rigging to be attached to the hull or deck
CHARTERER
Person who hires a vessel either on a voyage or for a period of time.
CHARTERPARTY
A contract between a ship owner and a party who hires his ship for an agreed period of time, or for a specific voyage or a series of voyages
CHINE 1.
Corner where adjacent hull panels meet, other than on the centerline; 2. As chine log
CHINE LOG
The longitudinal member to resistance over that of mild steel to which the panels are fastened at the chine
CHOPPED STRAND MAT
Glass-fibre reinforcement material, comprising of short strands randomly bound with an agent to form a mat, available in different thicknesses (weights)
CLASSIFICATION LENGTH
Hull length as defined by a classification society
CLASSIFICATION SOCIETY
Bodies approved by governments to ensure the practical enforcement of statute for the safety of life at sea
CLEAT
A fitting having two horns around which ropes may be tied, a clip on the frames to hold the cargo battens in place
CLEW
Lower, aft comer of a sail
CLINKER
System of wood hull construction in which the edges of the planks overlap and are through-fastened
CO-INSURANCE
Where two or more parties share the same insured risk.
COLD MOULDING
Process of modern wood construction in which layers of planks of veneer are built up using a resin adhesive able to cure at room temperature
COLLISION
Physical impact between two or more ships or vessels used for navigation.
COMPOSITE
Construction comprising two or more distinct materials
COMPOUND CURVATURE
Curvature in more than one direction of a panel, as for a sphere
COMPRESSIVE
Able to compress; nature of the forces tending to reduce length in the line of the forces and the accompanying stress
COMPRESSOR
A means of producing air.
CONICAL PROJECTION
System employed for the design of sheet material boats in which each panel takes the form of part of the surface of a cone
CONIFEROUS
Type of tree that typically retains its needle-like leaves all the year round
CONSTANT CAMBER
Hull design system for cold-moulded construction in which planks of veneer, having identically-shaped edges, are laid on a mould with a constant form both longitudinally and transverse
CONSTRUCTIVE TOTAL LOSS
Where the assured abandons the subject matter insured to the underwriter and claims a total loss.
CONTRACT OF AFFREIGHTMENT
Contract for the carriage of goods by sea in return for payment
CONVERSION
Sawing of logs into usable boards
COOL DOWN SURVEY
The process by which the refrigeration equipment is checked to be operating within its designed parameters. It is used to identify the possible existence of insulation deficiencies.
CORE
Lightweight material separating the two faces of a sandwich panel
CORE MAT
Plastic-based, cellular core material, able to absorb resin, which produces a secure connection between the faces of a sandwich panel
CORRESPONDENT
Representatives of the Association who are based in all major and minor ports throughout the world. Correspondents can be maritime lawyers, ship's agents or in some cases surveyors.
COR-TEN
A type of steel, sometimes used for hull construction, providing slightly greater strength and improved atmospheric corrosion resistance over that of mid steel
COAMING
The vertical plating bounding a hatchway
COFFERDAM
Narrow space between two bulkheads or floors that prevents leakage between adjoining compartments
COUNTER STERN
Characteristic stern, which extends beyond and above the waterline
COUPLE
Pair of equal forces acting in opposite and parallel directions
CRIMP
Undulation of individual yarns or rovings resulting from the weaving of fibre reinforcement fabric
CROSS-LINKED FOAM
Foam, usually PVC, of high strength and stiffness, the result of its cellular structure
CUP
Movement, producing hollowing in the section of a plank of wood
CURE
Chemical reaction resulting in the solidification of a synthetic resin
CYCLES [OF STRESS REVERSAL]
Number of times the loading and therefore stress in a material changes
CYLINDRICAL PROJECTION SYSTEM
Employed for the design of boats to be constructed from sheet material in which each panel can be envisioned wrapped around a cylinder, usually of varying diameter
DAVITS
The supports under which the lifeboats are stowed and from which they are launched overboard
DART
Removal of a V-shaped piece of material from a panel where excess occurs as a cone result of compound curvature, the cut edges of the panel then being joined
DEADRISE
Angle (usually) between one side of the bottom of a hull and the horizontal
DEADWEIGHT
The difference in displacement between the light and load waterlines
DECK BEAM
Transverse structural member supporting the deck and linking the gunwales or beam shelves
DECK LOG
A book where records of the vessel's navigational progress and daily events are kept.
DECIDUOUS
Term describing trees that shed their leaves before the onset of winter
DEDUCTIBLE
Sometimes called an "excess" is the amount the Member agrees to pay or is required to pay in respect of a particular claim.
DEEP-V HULL
Powered craft hull form with an angle of deadrise of the order of 25 degrees, carried through to the transom
DEMURRAGE
Charge made by ship owner or wharf owner for delay in unloading or loading
DEMISE CHARTER PARTY
A charter party under which the ship owner provides vessel, and charterer crew and cargo.
DERRICK
A wood spar or steel tube used for discharging or loading dry or packaged cargo.
DESIGN LOAD
Assumed load on a structure to serve as the basis for its design
DESIGN SPIRAL
Classic approach to design in which the design considerations are revisited at increasing levels of sophistication and detail
DEVELOPMENT
Outline of a sheet material panel when it is laid flat
DEZINCIFICATION
Loss of zinc, as a result of galvanic action, from copper-zinc alloys (such as brass), leaving porous copper
DIRECT [RELATIONSHIP]
As linear relationship
DISCLOSURE
The duty of the assured and his broker to tell the underwriter every material circumstance before acceptance of the risk
DISCONTINUITY
Abrupt change in shape, such as at a notch, crack or internal corner, presenting a disruption to the lines of stress
DISBURSEMENTS
Payments incurred for a variety of port expenses embracing fresh water, bunkers, customs fees etc.
DISPLACEMENT
The weight of water displaced by the ship
DOLPHIN
A block or structure to which vessels secure.
DOUBLE CHINE
Hull possessing two chines per side
DOUBLE DIAGONAL
System of wood construction in which layers of planking, separated by calico, are laid at 90 degrees to each other and at 45 degrees to the centerline
DOUBLE INFLECTION
Curve having two bends; of S-form
DOUBLE SHEAR
Shear involving two planes
DOWNWIND [SAILING]
Sailing with the wind
DRAPE
Ease with which fibre-based fabric, impregnated with uncured resin, can form around contours
DRAUGHT
The depth of water at which the ship floats
DUCTILE
Term describing a material that yields readily when drawn
DUNNAGE
Materials of different types placed in the hold for the protection and separation of cargo
DURABLE
Term describing wood that is resistant to decay; lesser resistance to decay is given by the categories: non-durable and moderate durable; while very durable indicates wood that is the most rot-proof
DURALUMIN [DURALUMINIUM]
Copper-based
DYNAMICAL LOADINGS
Loadings resulting from motion
EGG BOX [CONSTRUCTION]
Type of construction involving multiple stiffeners interlinked in cruciform fashion, broadly like an egg box
E-GLASS FIBRE
Most commonly used type of glass fibre in GRP manufacture, the E symbolizing electrical grade
ELASTIC LIMIT
Maximum stress in a material at which the material will return to its original dimensions if the stress is removed
ELECTRIC ARC
System of welding in which an arc is formed between a weld electrode and the metal to be joined, the electrode also serving as a filler rod
ELECTROLYTE
Solution permitting the passage of ions in an electrical cell
END GRAIN BALSA
Core material comprising panels of balsa sawn across the grain
ENDURANCE LIMIT
Level of stress below which a material will not fail, regardless of the number of stress reversals
ENGINEERING TOWARDS FAILURE
System of structural design in which the limit of acceptability is defined by failure
ENTERED SHIP
A ship which has been entered for insurance in any Class of the Association.
EPOXY [RESIN]
Resin having relatively high strength, waterproofness, bonding and strain capability; made by condensing diphenylolpropane with epichlorhydrin, the hardener producing a rigid network of polymer molecules
EQUIVALENT TORQUE
Expression, in the form only of torque, of the multiple loadings in a component experiencing principally torsion
ESTIMATED TOTAL CALL (ETC)
The approximate level of premium which the Members will be advised how much to budget for the coming year.
EVERGREEN
Term describing a tree that does not shed its leaves
EXTRUSION
Long length of a required section (which may be hollow), manufactured by a process in which a semi-molten billet of metal is pushed through a shaped die or former
FACE
One or other of the outer layers of a sandwich panel (usually in fibre-resin composite)
FACTOR OF SAFETY
Multiplier of the working load to indicate a design load
FACULTATIVE
The right of option. The right of an underwriter to decide whether or not to accept a risk.
FAIL SAFE
Design of a system so that the consequences of failure are relatively minor
FATHOM
A unit of measurement
FATIGUE
Reduction of strength of a material when subject to stress reversal
FATIGUE LIMIT
An endurance limit
FEATHERED EDGE
Sharp edge produced by a plain scarph
FEMALE MOULD
Conventional mould inside which fibre-resin composite mouldings are laminated, producing a good quality exterior finish
FENDERS
Rubbing pieces fitted on the sides of a ship as a means of protection
FERRIC OXIDE
Oxide of iron; rust
FERRO-CEMENT CONSTRUCTION
Construction comprising a steel framework and mortar FIBREGLASS Term used historically to describe boats of GRP construction FIBRE-RESIN COMPOSITE System comprising fibres (such as glass or carbon) in a solidified resin matrix
FORECASTLE
The superstructure on the upper deck at the fore end of a ship
FORE PEAK
The watertight compartment at the extreme foreward end.
FREIGHT
The hire of a ship, the carriage of cargo, cargo
GAFF-RIGGED
Rig having a mainsail that is four-sided in profile, the upper edge being supported by a gaff that projects from the mast
GALLERY
Aperture in a ballast keel which houses the nut that tightens a keel bolt
GALVANIC CORROSION
Corrosion resulting from the close proximity of two different metals in the presence of an electrolyte
GALVANIC SERIES
Rank ordering of metals depending upon their nobility
GANGWAY
A ladder used for boarding a ship
GAP-FILLING
Capability of an adhesive to bridge gaps in joints without noticeable loss of strength
GEL COAT
Outer, unreinforced resin layer of a laminate provides waterproofing and decorative feel
GENERAL AVERAGE
An extraordinary sacrifice or expenditure is intentionally and reasonably made or incurred for the common safety for the purpose of preserving from peril the property involved in a common adventure.
GENERATORS
Projection lines used to define the three-dimensional form of a panel (based typically upon a cone)
GLASS [FIBRE]
Reinforcement fibre produced by drawing glass very finely
GLASS FIBRE CLOTH
Fabric woven from yarns of glass fibre
GLASS-FIBRE-REINFORCED RESIN
Composite of glass fibres in a resin matrix
GLASS-FIBRE TAPE
Glass-fibre cloth, woven in narrow widths
GLOBAL LOADS
Large-scale loads affecting the whole structure
GLUED CLINKER
System of clinker construction in which the planks are glued rather than fastened together
GOOD FAITH
A basic principle of insurance. The assured and his broker must disclose and truly represent every material circumstance to the underwriter before acceptance of the risk. A breach of good faith entitles the underwriter to avoid the contract.
GOOSENECK
Hinge connecting the boom to the mast
GRAPHITE
As carbon
GRAVEYARD TEST
Method of measuring the durability of wood by burying samples in good soil and assessing the wood samples' decay over a period of time
GREEN
Term describing: 1. Resin in the early stages of curing. 2. Unseasoned wood
GROWN WOOD
Wood selected for its curved grain to match individual structural components
GRP
Abbreviation for glass fibre reinforced polyester, plastic or polymer
GUNWALE
1. Upper edge at the side of the hull. 2. Longitudinal at this position, usually for modern wood construction
HAGUE RULES
Throughout the latter half of the 19th Century there was increasing dissatisfaction amongst cargo owners and their insurers with the law governing a carrier's liabilities for damage to goods in their custody. This was due to an increasing number of protection and other limitation clauses. There was a growing demand to establish a uniform code or rules for the carriage of goods by sea. After many years a conference was held at Brussels, which resulted in a set of Rules known as the Hague Rules. The aim of the Rules was to establish a uniform code for the carriage of cargo shipped under Bills of Lading.
HAGUE VISBY RULES
In 1968 the Hague Rules were revised and amended in order to bring them into line with the needs of a modern shipping industry. The amended Rules are known as the Hague Visby Rules.
HALF-BREADTH PLAN
A drawing of the water-lines and sheerline of a hull from the centerline outwards
HAMBURG RULES
A further convention on the Carriage of Goods By Sea was held in Hamburg and the provisions agreed at this convention are known as the Hamburg Rules. The Hamburg Rules make the presumption that the carrier is responsible for any loss or damage unless it is proved that the carrier took all measures that could reasonably be required to avoid the occurrence.
HANGING KNEE
Knee disposed vertically
HARDENER
Component added to epoxy resin, which serves as part of the chemical reaction (unlike the catalyst added to polyester resin that initiates curing)
HARD SPOT
Localized, stiffened area on the skin or sandwich of a hull that is less flexible than the surrounding panel
HARDWOOD
Wood from broad-leaved trees (usually slow growing, thus producing compact, dense, hard wood)
HATCH COVER
Steel, wood or canvas covers for the openings to cargo compartments
HEAD
Height of a liquid (e.g., sea water), producing pressure
HEARTWOOD
Wood inside the sap-wood of a tree, used for construction
HEAT-TREATABLE
Term describing metals that respond to appropriate heat treatment with improved mechanical properties, especially strength
HELD COVERED
A provisional acceptance of risk, subject to confirmation at a later date that the agreed cover is needed. Where applicable to an existing insurance, cover is conditional, in practice, on prompt advice to the underwriter as soon as the assured is aware of the circumstances to be held covered coming into effect.
HEELING COUPLE
Product of the force on the sails at the centre of effort (equal to the hydro-dynamic force at the centre of lateral resistance) and the heeling lever
HEELING LEVER
Perpendicular distance between the lines of the aerodynamic and hydrodynamic forces or, in rig analysis, between a heeling force at the hounds and the chainplate
HOG
Centreline longitudinal of a wood dinghy or small cruiser
HOGGING
Tendency for a hull to bend upwards in the middle
HOLDS
Spaces below deck for stowage of cargo
HONEYCOMB CORE
Sandwich core material (typically of aluminium alloy or aramid fibre paper), comprising hexagonal or other cells, their axes being through the thickness of the core
HOOKED SCARPH JOINT
Wood joint between two structural members, not unlike a plain scarph, but zigzagged to lock the joint
HORN TIMBER
Structural member running from the transom to the stern post on a counter-sterned craft
HOSE TEST
The testing of hatch covers' weather tight integrity through the application of a jet of water (minimum 5 bar) to the hatch joints.
HOT MOULDING
System used by Fairey Marine for moulding wood boats, involving large ovens to cure the adhesive bonding the veneer
HOUNDS
Position on the mast at which the main shrouds and forestay meet
HULL
A ship's chassis/base frame
HYDRODYNAMIC
Term relating to the behaviour of water (or other liquid) under conditions of motion
HYDROSTATIC
Term describing an environment in which forces are produced by a static water head
IIMS
International Institute of Marine Surveying
IMPACT STRENGTH
Strength of a material or structure under impact or sudden load
IN COLUMN
Term describing a strut that is essentially straight such that end loads are transmitted without producing a tendency to curve
INDEMNITY
Security against damage or loss, exemption from penalties, compensation for damage
INHERENT VICE
A defect or inherent quality of the goods or their packing which of itself may contribute to their deterioration, injury, wastage or final destruction without any negligence.
INSURABLE INTEREST
It is illegal for anyone to insure without an insurable interest or, in the case of marine insurance, a reasonable expectation of acquiring such interest. In general one has such interest when his relationship to the property at risk may expose him to loss or liability or where he stands to gain by the safety of such property.
INTERLAMINAR STRENGTH
Strength between laminates of a fibre-resin composite, assessed by direct tension in a line perpendicular to the plane of the composite or by peeling laminates
INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR STANDARDIZATION
International body concerned with the development of standards, such as technical standards for boat construction
ISOPHTHALIC [RESIN]
Type of polyester resin, named after the isophthalic acid that this resin contains, which is mechanically superior and more waterproof than the commonly used orthophthalic polyester
ISOTROPIC
Term describing a material that possesses mechanical properties which are essentially equal in all directions centreline
JURISDICTION
Administration of justice
KEEL LINE
Line along the keel, usually the centreline
KICKING STRAP
System for pulling the boom downwards by using a line or wire attached to both boom and mast
KILN DRYING
Seasoning of wood using ovens
KILOGRAM (KG)
SI unit of mass (2.205lb)
KNEE
Structural member used to brace the corners formed in a vessel's construction
LAGGING
Material used for insulation
LAID UP RETURNS
P & I insurance premium or call, which is paid back to a Member when a vessel is temporarily taken out of service.
LAMINATE
1. Single layer of fibre-resin composite; 2. Complete fibre-resin composite; 3. Layered wood, glued together
LASER CUT
System for cutting plywood and other materials using a numerically-controlled laser
LEECH
Aft edge of a sail
LEEWARD
Away from the wind
LENTICULAR ROD RIGGING
Streamlined shrouds having a convex lens-shaped section
LETTER OF PROTEST
A declaration by the Master holding another party responsible for some loss or damage that has already occurred or is likely to occur to the ship or cargo.
LIABLE/LIABILITY
Legally bound, subject to, exposed to, answerable for/being liable for
LIEN
Retention of property until outstanding debt is discharged
LIGHTER
An open non-propelled barge
LINE
The amount or percentage in a broker's slip or policy which establishes the extent of the underwriter's liability. The written line is written by the underwriter on the slip when he accepts the risk.
LINEAR [RELATIONSHIP]
Relationship between two variables in which a percentage increase in one produces the same percentage increase in the other
LINEAR FOAM
Ductile, but low strength, plastic foam that is non-cross-linked
LINES PLAN
Drawing of the lines of a boat, depicting the shape of various cutting planes
LINER
A merchant ship engaged on a scheduled direct regular service
LIP
Squared-off section at each end of a scarph joint so that a feathered edge is avoided
LIST
Inclination of ship from the upright position
LOG BOOK
An official book containing the records of the voyage inserted by the Master of the ship
LLOYD'S REGISTER RULES AND REGULATIONS
Set of requirements developed by the classification society Lloyd's for construction and equipment
LOCAL LOADING
Loading occurring over a small area
LODGING KNEE
Knee linking two horizontal structural members
LONGITUDINAL
Stiffener (usually for the hull skin), running fore and aft
LONGITUDINAL STABILITY
Stability in the fore and aft sense
LOOSE TENONS
Rectangular-sectioned pieces of wood inserted into paired sockets in two components in order to prevent relative side movement
LOW-CARBON STEEL
Steel having a carbon content up to about 0.15 per cent
LUFF
Leading edge of a sail
MAIN BOILER
Typically water tube boilers where the steam and water drums are interconnected with tubes which carry the water.
MAINSAIL
Principal sail set on the after side of the main mast
MAINSHEET
Rope system that controls the mainsail
MANHOLE
A hole in the tank top to provide access
MANIFEST
Inventory/list of cargo shipped
MASS
Quantity of matter in a body, measured by its resistance to change of motion
MASTER
A person in sole charge of a ship
MAST PILLAR
Deck to keel support for a deck-stepped mast
MAST STEP
Fitting into which the matching bottom of the mast fits
MATE'S RECEIPT
An important document used in preparing bills of lading. It is a receipt, given and signed by the Mate, for goods actually received on board the ship. It must provide a description of the cargo, including the quantity, distinguishing marks, grade and any other relevant information.
MECHANICAL LOSSES
Energy losses within a mechanical system (such as result from the friction caused by rotating gears and bearings and the resistance produced by an alternator)
MEMBER
A ship owner/charterer/time charterer or a person who hires ships for a specific voyage who has entered his vessels with a P&I Association for insurance cover.
METALLIZING
Spraying of molten zinc on to heated steel
MICRO-BALLOONS
Very small, gas-filled plastic bubbles added to resin to provide a lightweight filler
MICRO-CRACKING
Formation of fine cracks in a fibre-resin composite
MICRO-SPHERES
As micro-balloons except that the bubbles are of glass
MIDSHIPS
Middle of the ship's length
MIG
Acronym for metal inert gas welding, involving an electrical current between a mechanically-fed wire and the work piece, the weld being surrounded by an inert gas such as argon
MILD STEEL
Steel in which the carbon content is less than about 0.8 per cent
MISREPRESENTATION
A mis-statement of fact made by the assured or his broker to the underwriter, before acceptance of the risk, which misleads the underwriter in assessing the risk.
MODEL
Description of the behaviour of a system in words, mathematically or as a diagram, in order to study the relationship or process more easily
MODERN WOOD CONSTRUCTION
Wood construction involving the extensive use of synthetic resin adhesives in favour of fastenings
MODULUS
As Young's modulus of elasticity
MODULUS OF RIGIDITY
Measure of the stiffness of a material in shear
MOISTURE CONTENT
Percentage of moisture contained within a sample of wood to the dry weight of the sample
MOMENT [OF A FORCE ABOUT A POINT]
Product of the force and the perpendicular distance from the force to the point
MOMENTUM
Product of the mass and the velocity of a moving body
MONOCOQUE
Shell that is self-supporting and does not rely on framing or stiffeners
MORTAR
Mix of cement and sharp sand (having angular grains that lock together)
MOULD
Pattern from which a hull or another component can be built
MOULDED
Type of construction, based upon a mould, involving: 1. A fibre-resin composite;2. Laminated wood veneers
MOVEMENT
Change in the dimensions of wood with change in moisture content
MULTI-AXIAL [FABRIC]
Fabric comprising multiple layers of glass or other fibre reinforcement with varied directional orientation
MULTI-CHINE
Hull form possessing several chines
MULTI-CONICAL
Hull panel design in sheet material based upon multiple cones having generators in common
MUTUAL INSURANCE
The sharing of liabilities on a non-profit basis
NEUTRAL AXIS
Axis perpendicular to the bending forces (in the case of a beam) and passing through the centroid of the section
NEUTRAL SURFACE
Surface or plane passing through the neutral axis of a beam at all sections along its length and thus remaining unchanged in length when bent
NEWTON (N)
SI unit of force and weight; rigorously, the force required to accelerate a mass of 1kg by 1 m/s; equivalent to 4.45 lb force
NOBLE
Indication of the relative tendency of metal to resist galvanic corrosion
NO CURE NO PAY
Salvage provision whereby no award is paid to a salvor if he is unsuccessful.
NODE
Intersection, as where the structural members of a space-frame meet
NORMALIZE
Process in which a metal is heated and cooled naturally
NUMERICAL CONTROL
Approach in which components are shaped by machine from numerical data in the form of offsets
OFFSETS
Co-ordinates of points defining a line
ONE-HUNDRED-YEAR-WAVE
Wave of a height occurring on average once every hundred years
ONE-OFF
Term describing the building of a single boat without intention for multiple production
ORTHOPHTHALIC [RESIN]
Widely-used polyester resin, made by a combination of maleic and phthalic anhydrides with a glycol
ORTHOTROPIC
As anisotropic
OSMOSIS
Process in which water-soluble material in a fibre-resin composite draws water through micro-pores in the surface as a result of a pressure differential, resulting in entrapped cavities filled with contaminated water that then form blisters on the surface
OVERSPILL CALL
If a claim exceeds the Club's retention, the Pool's retention and excess loss reinsurance an overspill call will be required.
OWNER
A person who owns a ship (shortened version of ship owner)
OXIDISE
To combine with oxygen
PANEL
1. Area of hull skin bounded by elements of the framework; 2. Length of mast between supports (e.g., deck, shrouds, stays or spreaders)
PARABEAM [TRADE NAME]
Form of sandwich construction in which the glass fibre faces are separated by pillars of glass fibres, the whole being impregnated with resin
PATCH
Sail cloth reinforcement in the corner of a sail
PERISHABLE
Description for wood of low durability
PEAK TANKS
The compartments at the extreme ends of the ship which are normally used as ballast tanks
PERIL
A term used in the Marine Insurance Act (1906) to denote a hazard.
PHOSPHOR BRONZE
Alloy of copper, tin and phosphorus
PILOT
A person who aids the Master in ship navigation, usually in confined waters.
PILOTAGE
A charge raised on a vessel entering a river/port/estuary/canal where the services of a pilot are obligatory
PIN-ENDED [STRUT]
A strut in which the ends force
PINNED
Modelling of a space frame in which the structural members are regarded as being able to rotate freely relative to each other at the nodes
PLAIN SAWN
Description for wood planks in which the annular growth rings run approximately across the width
PLANKING
Lengths of wood that constitute the skin of a framed wood boat
PLANING CRAFT
Craft that produce significant hydrodynamic lift at speed
PLASTIC
Synthetic polymer that can be moulded while in an appropriate state
PLUG
Full-sized model of a hull, deck, etc. from which a female mould can be produced
PLYWOOD
Sheet material manufactured by gluing together layers of veneer with the grain running alternately along and across the sheet
POISSON'S RATIO
Ratio of a material's lateral contraction to longitudinal extension when subject to longitudinal stress
POLAR SECOND MOMENT OF AREA
Measure of the resistance of a shaft to twisting as a function of its sectional shape
POLICY YEAR
Time period of insurance
POLYACRYLOMTRILE
Starting material for the manufacture (with pyrolysis) of carbon fibre
POLYESTER [RESIN]
Type of thermoset, used extensively in the boat building industry for GRP construction
POLYETHYLENE
Tough, translucent thermoplastic, best known under the trade name Polythene
POLYETHYLENE FIBRE
Fibre produced from polyethylene, having good mechanical properties but a tendency to creep
POLYMER
Compound made up of large molecules composed of many repeated simple units
POLYURETHANE
Type of plastic used significantly for surface coatings, glues and foams
POLYVINYL CHLORIDE [PVC]
Thermoplastic material produced by the polymerization of vinyl chloride
POOLING AGREEMENT
Means or method whereby claims are paid by various contributions from P & I Clubs collectively known as the London Group or International Group. A sharing arrangement.
PORT
Left hand side of the vessel when looking forward
POWER
Rate of doing work or consuming energy, measured in watts (W)
PRE-IMPREGNATED MATERIALS [PRE-PREGS]
Fibre- resin composite in which the precise amount of resin is incorporated in the reinforcement and is cured subsequently by heat only
PREMIUM
Monies paid to a P&I Association in respect of the entered ship
PRESSURE
Force per unit area, usually of a fluid
PRE-TENSIONING
Tensioning a tie before any external load is applied
PRIMA FACIE
At first glance
PRINCIPAL STRESSES
The largest single stress representative of two or more individual stresses, simultaneously applied
PRIVITY
Knowledge actual or constructive
PRODUCTION
Construction of more than one boat to the same design and specification
PROFILE PLAN
Drawing of the side view of a hull (usually with keel and rudder), depicting the sheer, keel, buttock and bow lines
PROOF STRESS
Stress in a material at a particular value of percentage strain, applied where the yield point is indistinct
PROPELLER
A revolving screw-like device that drives the ship through the water
PUMP
A means of transporting liquids or gases from one area to another.
QUARTER SAWN
Description for wood planks in which the annular growth rings run perpendicular to the width
RADIAL
Direction perpendicular to a tree's annular growth rings, viewed in section
RADIAN
Angular measure; formally, the angle subtended at the centre of a circle by an arc equal to the radius of the circle
RAKE [OF MAST]
Lean of the mast in the fore and aft sense
RATIFY/RATIFICATION
To confirm or accept by signature or other formality
REACHING
Point of sailing with the wind abeam
RECOVERY
Amount recovered from a third party responsible for a loss on which a claim has been paid.
RECREATIONAL CRAFT DIRECTIVE [RCD]
European Union directive specifying a range of requirements with which boat builders must comply
REINFORCED PLASTIC
Generally used term to describe a fibre-resin composite, normally GRP
REINSURANCE
The procedure whereby an insurance company or P & I Club passes on all or part of the risk to another insurance company or P & I Club.
RELEASE CALL
Upon the cesser of insurance in respect of an Entered Ship for any reason, or at any time thereafter the Managers may at their sole discretion demand an amount to release the Member from liability for further contributions to Calls in respect of such ship.
RESERVE
When claims cannot be met out of the call income or reinsurance then there are always reserves. It is not however a policy of P & I Clubs to hold on to their Members' money unnecessarily and therefore reserves are maintained at an optimum level.
RESIN
1. Name given to many polymers (e.g. synthetic adhesives, surface finishes and plastics); 2. Substance naturally exuded from trees
RESORCINOL FORMALDEHYDE
Fully waterproof, two-component resin adhesive for wood
R-GLASS FIBRE
Glass fibre possessing superior mechanical properties to E-glass fibre (and having a specification similar to the better known S-glass fibre, developed in the USA)
RIG
Spars, sails, shrouds, stays and ropes of a sailing craft
RIGHTING COUPLE
Product of the weight of a boat numerically (equal to the buoyancy) and the righting lever
RIGHTING LEVER
Perpendicular distance between the lines of the forces given by the weight of the boat and the buoyancy
RIDER CLAUSE
The addition of typewritten clauses to the standard Charter Party. These clauses can significantly alter the owner's responsibility for cargo claims.
RING FRAME
Frame that runs continuously around the hull and deck
ROLL CENTRE
Point about which a vessel rolls such that only rotational movement is apparent
RO-RO/ROLL ON/ROLL OFF
Ships capable of shipping vehicular traffic via a ramp
ROTATIONAL MOULDING
Moulding technique in which a female mould is coated with structural plastic by bi-axial rotation
ROVING
Bundle of up to a hundred strands of reinforcement fibre (usually glass)
RULES
Comprise of P & I cover/H & M cover/FD & D cover afforded to the Members subject to the terms of entry.
RULING LINES
As generators
RUNNING BACKSTAY
Readily adjustable back-stay, usually running aft from the hounds or an intermediate position on the mast
RUNNING DOWN CLAUSE
The collision liability clause which appears in a policy covering the hull and machinery of a ship.
RUNNING DOWN CLAUSE/RDC COVER
Sometimes all or part of the third party liability cover for damage caused to other vessels through collision is included in a special clause in the Hull and Machinery insurance. This is normally the only third party cover provided within the traditional Hull and Machinery policy.
SACRIFICIAL ANODE
Metal of low nobility (such as zinc) that will corrode, in the presence of sea water, in favour of other metals in the vicinity.
SACRIFICIAL PROTECTION
Means of reducing the extent of galvanic corrosion by placing a sacrificial anode on the hull underwater
SAGGING
Tendency for a hull to bend downwards in the middle
SALVAGE
Process of recovering a ship or cargo from a loss or damage due to maritime perils.
SALVOR
The person claiming and receiving salvage for having saved a vessel and cargo or any part thereof from impending peril or recovered after actual loss.
SANDWICH CONSTRUCTION
Construction involving faces (normally of fibre-resin composite) bonded to a lightweight core
SAPWOOD
Wood just inside the bark of the tree, not suitable for construction because it lacks durability
SCARPH JOINT
Tapered joint to connect two members of similar section
SCORE
Portion of wood removed from a structural member (e.g. a beam shelf) to create a joint (e.g. a skewed dovetail)
SEAM
Space between the planks of a carvel-built boat
SEASON
Removal of natural moisture from green wood
SECOND MOMENT OF AREA
Measure of the resistance of a beam or strut to bending or buckling as a result of the sectional shape
SECTION
Plane considered perpendicular to the main axis (of a hull, beam or strut for instance)
SECTION MODULUS
Ratio of the second moment of area of a section to the distance from the neutral axis to the outer surface of the section
SECURITY/GUARANTEE
A promise by a P&I Association to make payment to the receiver of the guarantee should the Member be held liable for a claim.
S-GLASS FIBRE
Abbreviation for structural glass fibre; glass fibre having mechanical properties superior to E-glass fibre
SHACKLE
Link to connect fibre and wire ropes to fittings, and for many other purposes
SHELL PLATING
The plates forming the outer side of the hull
SHEAR
Deformation in which two parallel planes remain parallel but move relative to each other
SHEAR PIN
Easily replaced component (used with outboard engines) intended to shear when subject to abnormal loads, in order to avoid more extensive failure
SHEAR STRENGTH [OF A MATERIAL]
Strength of a material in shear
SHEERLINE
Line depicting the intersection of the deck and topsides at all points fore and aft
SHEET MATERIAL
Constructional material available in sheet form (e.g. plywood and steel)
SHIPPER
A person wishing to send his goods by sea
SHORT GRAIN
Grain direction that does not run along the length, or follow the curve, of a wood member
SHROUD
Means of providing athwartships support to a mast (usually in the form of wire rope)
SI
Abbreviation for Systeme International d'Unites, a standardization of units, based upon metric measurements
SINGLE CHINE
Term describing a hull having one chine on each side
SINGLE SHEAR
Shear involving a single plane
SKEG
Structure projecting from the hull directly ahead of the rudder to provide support to the rudder and protect it
SKEWED DOVETAIL
Specific joint used between the deck beams and beam shelf on craft of traditional wood construction
SKIN
Outside covering (e.g. planking) of a hull
SKYLIGHT
A framework over accommodation or engine with glass inserted to admit light and air to the space below
SLAMMING AREA
Area of the hull subject to sea water impact in waves (mainly in the bow)
SLEEVED
Term describing the reinforcement of an extrusion by sliding a length of slightly larger or smaller sectioned extrusion outside or inside the first
SNAPE
Lip used for the stem to wood keel joint
S-N CURVE
Graph describing the level of stress (S) that produces failure in a material when a sample has experienced a specific number (N) of stress reversals
SOFTWOOD
Wood from the needle-leaved coniferous trees
SOLVENT-BASED
Term describing surface finishes and adhesives that contain solvents (e.g. spirit-based rather than water)
SOUNDING PIPE
A pipe led from the upper deck to the bottom of a tank which is used to ascertain the depth of water or liquid therein
SPACE-FRAMED CONSTRUCTION
Construction based upon struts and ties
SPADE RUDDER
Rudder not supported by a skeg
SPECIFIC MODULUS
As specific stiffness
SPECIFIC STIFFNESS
Stiffness of a material relative to its density
SPILE
Process in which a board of wood is marked for cutting to fit a complicated shape (e.g. an adjoining carvel plank)
SPINNAKER POLE TRACK
Track attached to the forward side of a yacht's mast so that the spinnaker pole height can be varied
SPREADER
Strut attached to the mast and used to spread the main shrouds
SPRUNG
Process in which sheet material, especially metal plate, has been bent into place when within the material's elastic limit
STAINLESS STEEL
Steel containing at least 11 per cent chromium (18 per cent being normal for marine use) to provide resistance to corrosion
STANCHION
Vertical column supporting decks or girders, also called a pillar
STARBOARD
The right hand side of a ship when looking forward
STATION
Longitudinal location of a section of the hull
STAY
Means of providing fore and aft support to a mast (usually in the form of wire rope)
STAYED
Term describing a mast that is supported by shrouds and stays
STEAM BENT
Term describing wood that has been steamed so that it bends more readily
STEERING GEAR
The gear which turns the rudder and thus steers the vessel.
STEM
Forward constructional member where the hull sides meet at the bow
STERN
The aftermost end of a ship
STERN POST
Near vertical structural member at the aft end of the hull on which the rudder may be hung
STEVEDORE
Docker engaged on cargo/baggage shipment
STIFFENER
General term to describe structural members that support the skin or other unsupported constructional panels
STIFFNESS
Measure of a material's resistance to strain, or a structure's resistance to deformation
STITCH AND GLUE
Method of construction in which plywood panels are first wired (or similar) together and fibre-glass-taped (with resin) on both sides of the corners to make the joints
STITCHED FABRICS
Multiple layers of directional fibre reinforcement, stitched together, thus avoiding crimp
STOCK [OF RUDDER]
Part of the rudder to which the blade is attached
STOPWATER
Softwood dowel used at points in joints/ intended to swell and limit water ingress
STOW
To put away, to stow cargo in a hold
STRAIN
Amount of deformation relative to the extent of the material over which the deformation occurs; tensile strain is expressed as extension relative to original length
STRAIN ENERGY
Energy transferred to a material and stored in the material when it is deformed
STRAND
Bundle of about two hundred reinforcement fibres
STRAP KNEE/FLOOR
Knee/floor constructed from metal
STRENGTH
1. Maximum stress a material can withstand; 2. Measure of the capability of a structure to withstand loads
STRESS
Loading per unit area within a material
STRESS CONCENTRATION
Localized high stress in a structure caused by a discontinuity of form
STRESS CONCENTRATION FACTOR
Measure of the acuity of a stress concentration; ratio of the stress with and without the stress concentration
STRESS REVERSAL
Change of stress in a material as a result of loading variation
STRIKES INSURANCE
Insurance which reimburses the ship owner for his daily operating costs when his vessel is strike-bound as a result of either shore labour or crew disputes.
STRINGER
Longitudinal, usually of small section
STRIP PLANKING
System for planking using edge-glued/ narrow, wood planks
STRUCTURAL EFFICIENCY
Measure of the relative strength and stiffness of a structure or material for its weight
STRUCTURE
Assembly of components (or a single component) intended to withstand loads
STRUT
Structural member that is long relative to the size of the section, subject to compressive (end) loads that tend to cause buckling
STUD
Fixing attached with some permanence to one component and tensioned by a nut after passing through another component
SUBROGATION
The right of the underwriter to step into the shoes of the assured following payment of a claim to recover the payment from another party who was responsible for the loss. Limited to the amount paid on the policy.
SUIT
Legal proceedings
SUPERNUMERARY
A relative of a crew member, or any other person whom a Member has agreed to maintain or carry on board an entered ship (except a person or persons carried on board an entered ship pursuant to a passage contract) including persons engaged under articles of agreement for nominal pay.
SUPERSTRUCTURE
Raised area above the deck, increasing interior headroom
TABERNACLE
Structure mounted on the deck of some small yachts into which the mast is fitted, so enabling convenient lowering and raising
TACKLE
Arrangement of rope running through blocks (pulleys) in order to haul a load greater than the pull on the rope
TACK WELDS
Infrequent/ short welds made in order to hold two plates in position prior to welding the join fully
TAILSHAFT
The aftermost length of shaft to which the propeller is attached
TAKE UP
Absorption of water by a boat of traditional wood construction (causing swelling of the planking and the sealing of the seams)
TALLY
The process of checking, or taking account of the goods placed into a ship or unloaded from a ship.
TANGENTIAL
Direction along the annular growth rings with respect to the section of a tree
TANKER
A steamer or motor vessel in which oils or molasses are transported in bulk
TARPAULIN
Waterproof canvas cover secured over non-watertight hatch covers.
TENSION
Nature of the load tending to stretch a structural member
THERMOPLASTIC
Type of plastic that softens when warmed
THERMOSET
Type of plastic that remains rigid once set and does not soften when warmed
THWART
Athwartships seat in a small boat
TIE
Tensile member
TIMBERS
Steam-bent, small-sectioned frames
TIME BAR
Expiry of suit time
TO CLASS
Term describing the construction of a vessel so that it meets the requirements of one of the classification societies
TOGGLE
Metal link (usually for attaching a bottlescrew to a chainplate)
TOGGLE PIN
Pin (often termed a clevis pin) to provide attachment to a toggle
TOP HAT STIFFENER
Stiffener used in fibre-resin composite construction, the section taking the form of a top hat
TOPSIDE
Side of a vessel above the waterline
TORQUE
Turning moment
TORQUE CURVE
Graph depicting the torque produced by an engine at different rotational speeds
TORSIONAL
Effect of torque on a component; twisting
TORT
An injury or wrong independent of the contract as by assault, malicious prosecution, negligence, slander or trespass
TORTURED PLYWOOD METHOD
Technique for design and construction in which plywood is forced to take up an element of compound curvature
TOVALOP
A voluntary agreement but legally binding between tanker owners which provides compensation to third parties for pollution damage and clean-up costs.
TRAMP
A merchant ship not confined to definite ports, but sails when cargo is available to and from any port
TRANSHIPMENT
Process of transferring cargo, usually from one ship to another
TRANSOM
Flat, or slightly curved, structure extending across the stern of a hull
TRANSVERSE STABILITY
Stability in the athwartships sense
TRI-AXIAL
Term describing three-layered reinforcement fabric, each layer being oriented differently (typically at 0, 60 and 120 degrees)
TRICHLOROETHANE
Agent of value for conditioning a surface prior to further laminating in order to achieve a good bond
TRIM
The difference in draught forward and aft
TRUE LENGTH
Actual length of a line in three-dimensional space
TRUSSED STRUCTURE
Space-framed structure designed to support a load
T-SECTION
Stiffener having a section in the shape of a T
TURBOCHARGER
A performance enhancing device fitted to engines, which use exhaust gases to drive gas turbines which force clean, cool air into the engine allowing increased power output from an engine.
TWEEN DECKS
The space between two adjacent decks
ULLAGE
The vertical distance between the surface of the liquid and the top or crown of the tank.
ULTIMATE TENSILE STRENGTH [OF A MATERIAL]
Tensile stress that produces failure in a sample of the material
UNA RIG
Rig having a mainsail and no others
UNDERWRITER
Has responsibility for negotiating each Member's calls required by the Club and the terms of entry to apply to new or additional vessels as well as any other changes that a Member might require. He is also heavily involved in marketing and development.
UNIDIRECTIONAL [REINFORCEMENT]
Term describing reinforcement possessing strength and stiffness, effectively in one direction only
UNSTAYED
Term describing a mast that resists loads as a cantilever; possessing no shrouds or stays
UPWIND [SAILING]
Sailing as close to the wind as possible
UREA FORMALDEHYDE
Waterproof, two-component, resin adhesive for wood
URETHANE ACRYLATE
Flexible adhesive for bonding the foam core to the outer face of a moulded sandwich
UTMOST GOOD FAITH
Mutual trust in negotiating an insurance contract. A breach of good faith by one party entitles the other to avoid the contract.
VACUUM BAGGING
Technique for consolidating fibre-resin composites (especially sandwich construction) and moulded wood veneer by removing most of the air from a bag surrounding the moulding.
VECTOR
Quantity defined by magnitude and direction
VECTOR DIAGRAM
Depiction of the forces (assumed in equilibrium) as a node, expressed as vectors and arranged to form a complete diagram
VELOCITY RATIO
Ratio of the distance the rope end of a tackle is pulled to the distance the load moves
VENEER
Thin sheet of wood, either sliced tangentially or sawn radially from the log
VENTURE
Term embracing the three elements of any commercial voyage - hull, cargo and freight/passengers
VINYL ESTER
Resin having the characteristics of both epoxy and polyester resins
WARP
Roving or yarn running along the length of a fabric
WARRANTY
An undertaking by the assured whereby he promises to comply with the terms of the warranty. Non-compliance constitutes breach of warranty and the underwriter is discharged from liability as from the date of the breach.
WASH DAMAGE
Created when a ship's speed is excessive in narrow and confined waters. Wash created erodes the banks and damages property on the banks.
WATERLINE
Line along the hull of a boat at the surface of the water
WAYBILL
List of passengers or inventory of cargo shipped
WEFT
Roving or yarn crossing the warp of a fabric
WELD DISTORTION
Distortion arising in the vicinity of a weld as a result of the localized, extreme heat
WELDED MESH
Steel lattice welded at its intersections (thus providing a stronger reinforcement for ferro-cement construction than hitherto used chicken wire)
WELDING
Technique for joining metals in which the edges to be joined are melted and fused, usually with like filler material
WELD PENETRATION
Depth to which the metal to be joined is melted and fused when welding
WET OUT
Impregnate fibre-reinforcement material with liquid resin
WINCHES
Machinery with which a vessel can operate its mooring ropes and cargo wires which are drum driven by many means to tension/slack mooring ropes and wires.
WIND
Twist in a component
WINDWARD
Towards the wind
WINDLASS
The machine used for raising the anchor and chain cable
WITHOUT PREJUDICE
Leaving the question open.
WOOD FLOOR
Floor fashioned from grown wood or laminated to shape
WOOD KEEL
Major part of the backbone of a yacht of traditional wood construction, running fore and aft between the sternpost and stem
WORKING LOAD
Load to which a structure is subjected in normal conditions of use
WOVEN ROVINGS
Rovings woven together to make a fabric
YARN
Twisted strands of reinforcement fibre
YIELD STRENGTH [OF A MATERIAL]
Minimum level of stress at which a material continues to deform with no increase in load
YOUNG'S MODULUS OF ELASTICITY
Measure of the stiffness of a material, defined by the ratio of stress to strain