Hi Mac,

Thanks for your reponse.

Quote:

In general, I believe Titanic's hull structure was staunchly constructed and -- had she not sunk -- could have served for the ship's commercial lifespan. I understand that compensation was added (such as additional and/or stronger pillars) where there were open spaces such as the reciprocating engine room, but whether this entirely compensated is for someone more knowledgable than me to answer. Olympic served for twenty-four years with no signs of weakness in this area.

However, some parts of the ship need to be stronger than others: amidships the frames were spaced 36 inches apart, and the plating doubled along the sheerstrake, turn of the bilge and so forth.

In comparison, towards the bow (for instance) the hull plating becomes gradually thinner, yet the frames are spaced closer together. The forward part of the ship would not be subjected to the same stresses as the middle of the hull girder.

Best wishes,

Mark.