Ferrous materials in marine engineering 1

Abstract

Andrew Laing was privileged to see the remarkable developments in marine engineering which were facilitated by the introduction of processes for the quantity production of high quality carbon steel components. Plain carbon steels continue to predominate other structural materials in this marine field. Nevertheless, during the twenty-five years which have elapsed since his death, new fabrication and treatment processes and many alloy steels have been employed to simplify production and overcome adverse service conditions. More recently special high duty cast irons have also assisted in these respects.

This lecture deals with a number of these aspects and where possible both cause and effect are considered. In addition, some future trends and developments are also indicated.