Strake

A strake refers to a longitudinal course of planks or plates running from the stem to the stern of a vessel (ship or boat). In wooden vessels, strakes are planks. In metal vessels, strakes are plates. Strakes are arranged edge-to-edge to form the hull.

Etymology: The term originates from the Old English word "strac," meaning a line or stripe.

Types of Strakes:

• Garboard Strake: The strake immediately adjacent to the keel. It is often thicker than other strakes for added strength and to facilitate attachment to the keel.
• Sheer Strake: The uppermost strake of the hull, usually running along the level of the deck. It provides structural rigidity and often supports the bulwarks or railings.
• Bilge Strake: The strake located at the turn of the bilge, where the bottom of the hull transitions to the sides. This area is often subjected to significant stress, so the bilge strake may be reinforced.
• Rubbing Strake: An external strake that is fitted to protect the hull from abrasion and impact, often along docks or other vessels. It is usually made of a durable material such as wood, rubber, or metal.
• Stealer Strake: A short strake used to accommodate the increasing width of the hull as it curves outwards towards the bow and stern. It avoids the need for excessively wide planks or plates.

Function:

Strakes are crucial components of hull construction, providing:

• Strength: They contribute to the overall structural integrity of the hull, resisting bending and torsional forces.
• Watertightness: The close fit between adjacent strakes ensures a watertight seal, preventing water from entering the vessel.
• Hydrodynamic Efficiency: The smooth, continuous surface formed by the strakes reduces drag and improves the vessel's performance through the water.
• Shape: Strakes are integral in defining the hull's shape and influencing its handling characteristics.

Related Terms:

• Clinker Built: A method of boat building where strakes overlap each other, with the lower edge of one strake overlapping the upper edge of the strake below.
• Carvel Built: A method of boat building where strakes are fitted edge-to-edge, creating a smooth hull surface.