Panting (ship construction)

Panting beams used to strengthen the bow of a ship. — Panting beams used to strengthen the bow of a ship (RRS *Discovery*). source ↗

Panting refers to the tendency of steel hull plating to flex in and out like an oil can being squeezed when a ship is pitching. This occurs when a ship is making headway in waves. Panting creates significant stress on a ship's hull.¹ It is potentially dangerous and can result in flooding and the separation of the hull and deck. The British battleship HMS Rodney suffered significant leaking from panting.² Addressing panting is an essential component of ship design. It is typically countered by reinforcing the bow and the stern with beams and stringers.

References

Bruce, George J.; Eyres, David J. (2012). Ship Construction. Oxford: Butterworth-Heinemann. p. 73. ISBN 978-0080972398.
Raven, Alan; Roberts, John (1976). British Battleships of World War Two. London: Arms and Armour Press. p. 265. ISBN 0853681414.

[1] Bruce, George J.; Eyres, David J. (2012). Ship Construction. Oxford: Butterworth-Heinemann. p. 73. ISBN 978-0080972398.

[2] Raven, Alan; Roberts, John (1976). British Battleships of World War Two. London: Arms and Armour Press. p. 265. ISBN 0853681414.

1

2