THE MAKING OF A SHIP

The launch of a ship is a most thrilling thing to see, but probably many of those who do see it are unaware of the care and calculation which are necessary to ensure that everything will go off without a hitch."" Care and calculation are the operative words in every aspect of shipbuilding and the author has brought these qualities to his meticulous description of the shipbuilding industry. He writes very clearly and, wherever words might fail, there are labeled diagrams and cross-sectional drawings to illustrate the points in marine architecture and the physical and mechanical principles that must be considered during ship construction. From the functions of the naval architect to the continuous testing of every part of a motor, a propeller or a hull, the author concerns himself with the precise descriptions of method. The book is a British import, and while the student interest in an island country famous for its ships is undoubtedly higher than it is here, the vocational market and model builders will appreciate the mass of detail explained about liners, tugs, tankers, etc. and the many craftsmen it takes to make them. The last chapter is devoted to experimental designs.