BILGE WAYS Meaning and
Definition
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Bilge ways refer to a specific part of a shipyard or dockyard where a vessel is launched into water or returned to dry land. It typically consists of a sloping track or ramp made of smooth, lubricated timbers, designed to facilitate the movement of ships into or out of water.
The term "bilge ways" derives its name from the word "bilge," which refers to the lower part of a ship's hull where the curve of the bottom meets the vertical sides. This area is prone to collecting water, debris, and sludge, known as bilge water, which is drained out to keep the ship stable and prevent damage or corrosion. The "ways" part of the term refers to the track-like structure laid down on the ground where the ship is positioned before launch or arrival.
When a vessel is being launched, it is typically built on a set of bilge ways. Once construction is complete, the ship is carefully positioned on these ways. The inclined slope allows the ship to slide smoothly into the water as the ways are gradually lubricated to reduce friction. Conversely, when a ship needs to be taken out of the water for repairs, maintenance, or storage, it is lifted onto the bilge ways and hauled out of the water using a system of masts, cranes, or winches.
Bilge ways are critical for shipbuilding and ship repair operations, as they provide a controlled and efficient means for launching and retrieving ships while minimizing damage to the vessel and maximizing safety for workers involved in the process.
Common Misspellings for BILGE WAYS
- vilge ways
- nilge ways
- hilge ways
- gilge ways
- bulge ways
- bjlge ways
- bklge ways
- bolge ways
- b9lge ways
- b8lge ways
- bikge ways
- bipge ways
- bioge ways
- bilfe ways
- bilve ways
- bilbe ways
- bilhe ways
- bilye ways
- bilte ways
- bilgw ways
Etymology of BILGE WAYS
The word "bilge ways" is derived from the combination of two distinct terms: "bilge" and "ways".
1. "Bilge": In maritime terminology, "bilge" refers to the lowest internal part of a ship's hull, where water that enters the vessel collects. The term originates from the Middle English word "bilge" or "bylgy", which, in turn, is derived from the Old Danish word "bælg", meaning "bag" or "bulge". Over time, "bilge" came to represent the rounded portion of a ship's hull where the bottom meets the sides.
2. "Ways": In shipbuilding, "ways" are structures or frameworks made of wood or metal onto which a ship is placed while being built or repaired.
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