TNA ADM 199 792

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9723
61
- 2 -
1940
7. The following remarks are put forward as the
result of experience gained from damage:-
(1) Engines and Boilers.
Arrangement of Main Steam system is such that
if pipes on starboard side were undamaged and
cross connection valve shut, the starboard turbines
could still be provided with steam. No improvement
is therefore suggested in the existing system.
Arrangements of both auxiliary superheated and
auxiliary saturated systems, on the other hand, are
such that they are very vulnerable. The whole
system, in each case, being put out of action
if any part of the system in the boiler rooms is
damaged.
In the case of "Basilisk" it is presumed. that the
bomb damaged both these systems, so that all steam
auxiliaries were consequently put out of action
so that it was impossible to maintain steam.
It is therefore considered that the provision of
additional isolating valves and alternative leads
in both the auxiliary superheated and saturated
steam system is highly desirable.
(ii) Lighting.
It was not found possible to start the petrol
driven dynamo on account of magneto trouble. The
Oldham lamps of which an additional number had
recently been supplied all worked and were most
useful. It is considered that a number of torches
should be placed in handy positions in each
compartment.
(iii) W/T.
An arrangement had been made in "Basilisk" to carry
power direct to the W/T installation from the petrol
driven dynamo, and had the engine been able to be
started this secondary means of operating W/T would
have been very valuable.
(iv) Pumps.
Although the necessity did not here arise it was
brought out in my enquiry that it would be an
advantage to have two portable electric pumps
available for pumping out flooded compartments
and for use in case of fire.
(v) Steering Gear.
Concussions caused stores etc. stowed in the after
steering compartment to fall in and cover the
steering gear. It is considered desirable to have
the steering gear endlosed to prevent this.
(vi) Construction.
In the case of "Basilisk" hull weakness was again
demonstrated. In two other cases ships have broken
their