Glossary

Deutsch: Metall / Español: Metal / Português: Metal / Français: Métal / Italiano: Metallo

Metal in the maritime context refers to various types of metals used in the construction, maintenance, and operation of ships and other maritime structures. These metals play a crucial role in ensuring the structural integrity, durability, and functionality of maritime vessels and infrastructure.

Description

In the maritime industry, metal is fundamental due to its strength, durability, and resistance to harsh marine environments. Several types of metals are commonly used, each serving specific purposes:

• Steel: The most widely used metal in shipbuilding, steel is prized for its high strength and durability. It is used for the hull, decks, and structural components of ships. Marine-grade steel is treated to resist corrosion caused by saltwater.

• Aluminium: Known for its lightweight properties and resistance to corrosion, aluminium is often used in the construction of smaller vessels, such as yachts and ferries. It is also used in superstructures and fittings to reduce the overall weight of larger ships.

• Copper-Nickel Alloys: These alloys are used extensively in marine applications due to their excellent resistance to seawater corrosion and biofouling. They are commonly found in piping systems, heat exchangers, and condensers.

• Titanium: Although more expensive, titanium is used in specialized maritime applications where high strength and excellent corrosion resistance are required, such as in deep-sea submersibles and advanced naval vessels.

• Bronze: This metal is used for various fittings, propellers, and bearings due to its good corrosion resistance and machinability.

Special Considerations

One critical aspect of using metals in the maritime context is the need to prevent and manage corrosion. Corrosion is a significant issue due to the constant exposure of metals to saltwater and harsh marine conditions. Various methods are employed to combat corrosion, including:

• Protective Coatings: Applying paints and coatings to metal surfaces to prevent direct contact with seawater.
• Cathodic Protection: Using sacrificial anodes or impressed current systems to protect the metal surfaces of ships and structures.
• Regular Maintenance: Routine inspections and maintenance to identify and address corrosion early.

Application Areas

• Shipbuilding: Construction of hulls, decks, and superstructures.
• Marine Engineering: Components such as propellers, shafts, and rudders.
• Offshore Structures: Oil rigs, wind turbines, and underwater pipelines.
• Piping Systems: Transport of fluids within ships and marine facilities.
• Heat Exchangers: Systems for transferring heat in marine engines and other machinery.

Well-Known Examples

1. Oil Tankers and Cargo Ships: These large vessels primarily use steel for their hulls and structural components to ensure strength and durability.
2. Luxury Yachts: Often constructed with aluminium to achieve a balance between strength and lightweight properties, allowing for higher speeds and fuel efficiency.
3. Naval Submarines: High-strength steel and titanium are used to withstand the extreme pressures of deep-sea environments.
4. Offshore Oil Rigs: Utilise a variety of metals, including steel and copper-nickel alloys, to ensure structural integrity and resist corrosion in a harsh, corrosive environment.

Treatment and Risks

Metals in the maritime context face several risks, primarily from corrosion and biofouling. Effective treatment strategies include:

• Corrosion Inhibitors: Chemicals added to water systems to reduce corrosion rates.
• Anodic Protection: Utilizing more easily corroded 'sacrificial' metals to protect important metal parts.
• Regular Cleaning: Removing biofouling organisms like barnacles that can accelerate corrosion.

Similar Terms

• Alloys: Mixtures of metals that enhance properties like strength and corrosion resistance.
• Galvanisation: Process of applying a protective zinc coating to steel or iron to prevent rusting.
• Marine Coatings: Specialized paints and coatings designed to protect metal surfaces in the marine environment.

Weblinks

• architektur-lexikon.de: 'Metall' in the architektur-lexikon.de (German)
• environment-database.eu: 'Metal' in the glossary of the environment-database.eu
• allerwelt-lexikon.de: 'Metall' in the allerwelt-lexikon.de (German)
• industrie-lexikon.de: 'Metall' in the industrie-lexikon.de (German)
• space-glossary.com: 'Metal' in the space-glossary.com
• umweltdatenbank.de: 'Metall' im Lexikon der umweltdatenbank.de (German)
• top500.de: 'Metal' in the glossary of the top500.de
• quality-database.eu: 'Metal' in the glossary of the quality-database.eu

Summary

Metal in the maritime context is essential for building and maintaining ships and maritime structures due to its strength, durability, and resistance to harsh marine conditions. Various metals, including steel, aluminium, copper-nickel alloys, titanium, and bronze, are used in different applications. Managing corrosion is a critical aspect of using metals in the maritime industry, achieved through protective coatings, cathodic protection, and regular maintenance.

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