KEEL OF SHIP
The keel is an important element of a boat’s design. It is essential to ensure water stability, balance, and maneuverability. The keel is often called the “backbone” of a boat; it runs along the base of the hull, stretching its entire length.
What is the keel of a ship?
The keel is the basic structural part that runs along the length of the hull of a boat or a ship, at the base of a ship or boat.
The main function of the keel is to provide balance and stability to the vessel amd
The main function of the keel is to provide stability and balance to the vessel and prevent it from deviating or bending mainly in strong winds or rough seas.
The keel also improves the hydrodynamics of the ship which allows it to glide through the water more properly.
For sailboats, the keel plays an important role in countering the sideways force of the wind. Without it, a sailboat would slide and would not be able to move forward.
Types of Keel
- Full keel
Full keel is the one that runs through the full length of the bottom of the ship.
This type of keel offers great stability and it is common in old sailing yachts.
They are highly durable and keep the ship’s body steady.
2. Fin keel
Fin keel is a type of keel that is short and deep. This type of keel offers less drag and very large maneuverability. It is used in modern racing yachts and sailboats because it allows faster speed
A fin keel is a narrow, vertical extension that projects downward from the bottom of the hull. It usually features a concentrated ballast at its lower end that is helpful in providing additional stability.
3. Wing keel
Wing keels were invented by Ben Lexcen who is an Australian yacht designer. This type of keel has horizontal wings at its base. Wing keel is useful in improving lift to help the boat sail effectively.
4. Bulb keel
Bulb keel is a type of keel that has a heavy-weighted bulb at the bottom of the ship. Bulb keel provides a lower center of gravity and is perfect for racing sailboats as it helps in increasing the speed of the boat.
5. Swing keel
Swing keel is also known as lifting keel. These type of keels can be adjusted which helps the ships navigate easily in shallow waters. And when the ships or boats are in deeper water the keel can be lowered to provide stability.
Functions of keel
- Stability and Balance: The keel is designed with weight and shape to lower the boat’s center of gravity, making it more resistant to tipping. This is especially critical for sailboats, where wind and waves exert substantial forces.
- Directional Control: Acting like an underwater fin, the keel minimizes “leeway,” or sideways drift, helping the boat stay on course, particularly when sailing.
- Structural Strength: The keel reinforces the boat’s hull, absorbing the impact from waves or grounding and providing essential support.
- Enhanced Sailing Performance: In sailboats, the keel plays a vital role in capturing wind power effectively. It balances the forces on the sails, ensuring the boat moves forward rather than being pushed sideways.
Material used in keel
In older times, keels were made of wood and also from the same material as the hull.But now keels are mainly made of lead and iron.
- Lead keels- They are extremely dense keels that provide stability without taking up much space. In performance boats, the keel is made of lead
- Iron keels- Iron is heavier than iron and also more affordable. They provide an amazing balance and stability to the boat or ship.
Lead keel
Iron keel
What is the difference between hull and keel?
The hull and keel are two different parts of a ship, both have their unique importance in the ship or boat.
The hull is the main body of the vessel, it includes the bottom, deck, and sides of the ship. It provides buoyancy that helps the vessel to float. It runs through the waterline from both above and below.
On the other hand, a keel is a structural part that runs through the bottom of the hull from the bow to the stern. It helps in maintaining the stability of the ship by lowering the center of gravity. It is present completely below the waterline at the bottommost part of the vessel.
| Aspect | Hull | Keel |
| Main role | Provides buoyancy | Provides stability |
| Position | Above and below the waterline | Only below the waterline |
| Structural purpose | The main body of the ship | Supports the hull |
FAQs
Q1. Why is a keel important?
Ans: It provides stability, hydrodynamics, and balance to the ship.
Q2. What is the purpose of the keel?
Ans: It prevents the vessel from getting blown sideways.
Q3. What is the keel also called?
Ans: Keel is also called as the carina.
Q4.Which type of keel is the best?
Ans: fin keel is the best type of keel.
Q5. What is the boat without a keel called?
Ans: The boat without a keel is called as dinghy.
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