I-Beams Used for Hatchway Beams

Abstract

I-sections used for hatchway shifting beams have many advantages over the welded beams composed of flanges and webs: saving of labour and cost and also reduction of the working area. However, the standard sizes of I-beam are not so many that often we are obliged to use inappropriate sizes, resulting in increase of the total weight or number, and the merits of I-beams are lost consequently. To remove the inconvenience, some new sizes of I-beams, which will meet the requirement of shipbuilders, are proposed in this paper. At present, the scantling of the hatchway beams has to comply with the Load Line Regulations and Classification Society Rules. Considering that the weakest section of the beam supported at the both ends and loaded uniformly is not at its middle point, additions or revisions are hoped to be introduced into the rules which will increase the usefulness of the I-beams.