Technical Naval Glossary: Essential Terms for Understanding the Sector

In the naval sector, mastering technical terminology is essential to ensure effective communication between work teams, customers, suppliers, and regulatory bodies. This glossary brings together the main terms used in the naval industry and repair yards, serving as a practical reference for both experienced professionals and those starting their careers in this field.

In this article, we present a selection of essential terms that facilitate understanding of the operations, systems, and structures associated with naval engineering and maintenance. This is a useful resource for both professionals and those curious about the workings of shipyards.

Visible Terms: Understanding the Structure of a Ship

Before delving into technical terminology, it is important to visualise the basic structure of a ship. The cover image of this article, captured by drone, shows a ship in dock with some structural elements highlighted.

Terms highlighted in the image:
– Length Overall (LOA): total measurement of the ship, from the bow to the stern.
– Moulded Beam: maximum width of the hull, measured between the inner points of the cavities.
– Deck: main visible floor of the vessel, which may be divided into several sections depending on the function and type of ship.
– Superstructures: structures located above the main deck, such as the bridge, accommodation or technical compartments.

Structural and Shipbuilding Terms

Hull – The outer part of the vessel that remains in direct contact with the water. It can be constructed from steel, aluminium or composite materials, depending on the type of ship.

Keel – Structural element that provides stability to the hull.

Freeboard – Distance between the waterline and the main deck.

Bow bulb – A rounded extension at the front bottom of the hull that improves hydrodynamic efficiency.

Terms of Dockage and Repair

Docking – The process of placing a ship in dry dock for maintenance.

Beaching – Moving a vessel sideways onto dry land.

Stowage – Organisation of cargo on board.

Mooring – Manoeuvring the ship alongside the quay.

Towing – Pulling one ship with another.

Hydrojet – Cleaning the hull with a high-pressure water jet.

Naval welding – Joining structural metal elements.

Steel work – Manufacturing and repairing metal structures.

Machining – Lathe, milling and finishing processes for metal parts.

Terms Related to Mechanical and Technical Systems

Main engine – Responsible for propelling the ship.

Propeller – Device that converts engine power into motion.

Steering gear – Manoeuvring system, including the rudder and controls.

Technical Measurements and Calculations

LPP (Length Between Perpendiculars) – Length between perpendiculars at the bow and stern.

Gross Tonnage (GT) – Total internal volume of the ship.

Net Tonnage (NT) – Useful volume for cargo and passengers.

Displacement – Weight of displaced water, equivalent to the weight of the ship.

Draft – Height between the keel and the main deck.

Protection and Painting

Antifouling – Coating that prevents the growth of marine organisms.
Primer – Base coat that protects against corrosion.
DFT (Dry Film Thickness) – Dry thickness of the applied paint.

Safety and Certification

Freeboard – Distance between the maximum load line and the main deck.

Watertightness – Ability to prevent water from entering.

Class certification – Document proving technical and structural compliance.

Auxiliary Structures and Equipment

Engine room – Space containing engines and propulsion systems.

Rudder – Submerged steering structure.

Superstructure – Part of the ship above the main deck.

Why is it Important to know these Terms?

Knowledge of technical naval terminology goes beyond internal communication: it is a key factor for safety, efficiency and quality in the execution of services. Understanding these concepts allows you to:

– Reduce communication failures between customers and shipyards;

– Clearly interpret technical reports, budgets and repair plans;

– Monitor ongoing interventions with greater accuracy;

– Raise the technical and professional level of all stakeholders.

Explore, Learn and Follow our Work

CABNAVE is committed to promoting technical knowledge and the continuous training of its team. We believe that sharing information is essential for the development of the naval sector in Cape Verde.

Continue to follow our Technical Blog, where we discuss topics related to maintenance, innovation, and best practices in ship repair.

Would you like to suggest a term for the next technical naval glossary?

Do you have questions about a technical concept or would you like to see a term included in a future edition?

Please contact us using the contact form. We are always available to clarify any questions.

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