Exam Question

### (a) Design and Method of Attachment to Reduce Shell Plate Damage (8 Marks)
The design and attachment of bilge keels are meticulously planned to perform their primary function of roll damping while ensuring they do not compromise the watertight integrity of the hull, even if damaged or torn off. This is achieved through several key structural features:
1. **Use of a Doubler Plate (Reinforcing Plate)**:
* The bilge keel fin is not welded directly to the main shell plating. Instead, a continuous flat bar, known as a doubler or insert plate, is first welded to the hull.