DECK PLATING The heaviest deck plating will be found abreast the
hatch openings of the strength deck. Plating which lies within the line of the
hatch openings contributes little to the longitudinal strength of the deck
and it is therefore appreciably lighter. As the greatest longitudinal bending
stresses will occur over the midship region, the greatest deck plate thickness
is maintained over 40 per cent of the length amidships, and it tapers to a
minimum thickness permitted at the ends of the ship. Locally the plating