The Evolution oj Floating and Other Dry Docks. 7 1 



smooth the somewhat rugged path of the worried shipowner. 

 Only the other night I was enabled to enter, regulate and dry 

 dock a vessel between the hours of 9 p.m. and 2 a.m., thereby 

 saving an entire day, and all negotiations were conducted 

 through the telephone, and if such or similar arrangements 

 could be adopted by corporate bodies I feel sure the port would 

 considerably benefit by them. 



The majority of floating docks are owned by individuals or 

 companies who are quick to note the desires of their customers, 

 having at the same time an eye on dividends ; with the result 

 that on the modern floating docks we iind such conveniences as 

 the following : — 



Hydraulic shores all fore and aft, these are of such a design 

 that they not only act as ordinary shores but can move the 

 vessel into the required position ; then there are centreing 

 shores which automatically bring the vessel plumb over the 

 blocks. Again, bilge shores are all mechanical, with the 

 advantage that they can all be placed by not more than two or 

 three men. Again, we find fitted, means for washing down 

 with powerful hydraulic jets, both hot and cold. Powerful 

 warping capstan and travelling cranes to expedite repairs are 

 provided. Portable and fixed electric lights to facilitate night 

 work, handy platforms dispensing with staging or scaffolding, 

 etc., etc. 



With this information before us one cannot but believe that 

 the graving dock, even as now designed, is a crude and 

 antiquated contrivance, and is it a wonder we give preference 

 to the floating dry dock .? 



I might point out some of the advantages the floating dry 

 dock has over the graving dock in a harbour Uke Belfast. 



1. It is much cheaper than a graving dock, costing probably 

 one half, and the price can be definitely stated before the 

 commencement of construction. 



2. It is a self-contained structure not being affected by 

 doubtful foundations, awkward land springs, or the nature of 

 the ground at all, hence no contingent allowances are required. 



