NES-147 Requirements Building Accuracy Const Ss

Ministry of Defence
Defence Standard 02-147 (NES 147)

Issue 1 Publication Date 01 April 2000
The Requirements For Building

Accuracy During Construction Of
Surface Ships
Incorporating NES 147 Category 2

Issue 3 Publication Date July 1991
AMENDMENT RECORD
Amd No Date Text Affected Signature and Date
REVISION NOTE
This standard is raised to Issue 1 to update its content.
HISTORICAL RECORD
This standard supersedes the following:
Naval Engineering Standard (NES) 147 Issue 3 dated July 1991

Ministry of Defence
Naval Engineering Standard
NES 147 Issue 3 (Reformatted) July 1991
THE REQUIREMENTS FOR BUILDING ACCURACY

DURING CONSTRUCTION OF SURFACE SHIPS
This NES Supersedes
NES 147 ISSUE 2
Record of Amendments
AMDT INSERTED BY DATE
1 Keith A Spinks—SEA 1 June 1995
10
NAVAL ENGINEERING STANDARD 147
ISSUE 3 (REFORMATTED)
THE REQUIREMENTS FOR BUILDING ACCURACY
DURING CONSTRUCTION OF SURFACE SHIPS
The issue and use of this Standard
is authorized for use in MOD contracts
by MOD(PE) Sea Systems and
the Naval Support Command
ECROWN COPYRIGHT
Published by:
Director of Naval Architecture

Procurement Executive, Ministry of Defence
Foxhill, Bath BA1 5AB
i
ii
NES 147
Issue 3 (Reformatted)
SCOPE
1. This NES defines and establishes the accuracy requirements and structural tolerances to be
employed by the Shipbuilder to ensure that the structure of surface vessels is built to the
required dimensions. It is applicable to the structure of RN surface ships constructed of steel
and/or aluminium.
2. The tolerances covered range from those applied to component parts and sub-assemblies
through to the principal dimensions of the assembled structure.
3. Typical illustrations are included to convey the permissible variations on dimensions,

distortions or misalignments relative to Datum points.
4. Accuracy requirements are also included for:
a. the installations of seatings for machinery and weapons and;
b. the control of major overhanging structure and shaft alignment.
5. Composite vessels such as GRP and wood are specifically excluded from this NES.
iii
NES 147
iv
NES 147
FOREWORD
Sponsorship
1. This Naval Engineering Standard (NES) is sponsored by the Procurement Executive, Ministry
of Defence, Director Naval Architecture (Surface Ships) (DNA(SS)), Section NA 123, Foxhill,
Bath BA1 5AB.
2. It is to be applied as required to any Ministry of Defence contract as the standard for building
accuracy during the construction of RN Surface Ships.
3. The structural design of a warship involves strength calculations which are based upon the
dimensions of the vessel, material characteristics and a suitable load criteria. Using a wide
variety of design and analysis tools available to the designer, a ship could be designed assuming
that all materials are free from defects and all manufacturing, shaping, fairing etc will be
performed exactly to specification.
4. The designer recognizes that this ‘ideal’ is impossible to achieve in practice and therefore
factors of safety are introduced to ensure that the presence of acceptable material flaws and
structural misalignments will not endanger the vessel or impair its performance. The various
factors of safety are specified in Naval Engineering Standards or commercial Classification
Society Rules.
5. Acceptable flaw and structural misalignments are expressed in terms of tolerances. Their
definition is based on structural theory, past experience and the known limitations of the
construction process.
6. In order to establish a set of tolerances a review of existing constructional tolerances has been
carried out. The tolerances obtained have been modified to suit the particular nature of
warship structures. These tolerances and the general methods to be used in their application
are the subject of this NES.
7. If this standard is found to be technically unsuitable for any particular requirements the
Sponsor is to be informed in writing of the circumstances with a copy to DNA(SS), Section
NA 145.
8. Any user of this NES either within MOD or in industry may propose an amendment to it.
Proposals for amendments that are not directly applicable to a particular contract are to be
made to the Sponsor of the NES and those directly applicable to a particular contract are to
be dealt with using existing procedures or as specified in the contract.
9. No alteration is to be made to this NES except by the issue of an authorized amendment.
10. Unless otherwise stated, reference in this NES to approval, approved, authorized and similar
terms means by the Ministry of Defence.
11. Any significant amendments that may be made to this NES at a later date will be indicated
by a vertical side line. Deletions will be indicated by 000 appearing at the end of the line
interval.
12. This NES has been reissued to include changes to departmental nomenclature consequent
upon the reorganization of the Controllerate, particularly with regard to eliminating
references to DG Ships.
13. Major revisions have been incorporated in this issue to produce a definition of acceptable
fabrication tolerances which are contractually binding.
v
NES 147
Conditions of Release
General
14. This Naval Engineering Standard (NES) has been prepared for the use of the Crown and of
its contractors in the execution of contracts for the Crown. The Crown hereby excludes all
liability (other than liability for death or personal injury) whatsoever and howsoever arising
(including but without limitation, negligence on the part of the Crown, its servants or agents)
for any loss or damage however caused where the NES is used for any other purpose.
15. This document is Crown Copyright and the information herein may be subject to Crown or
third party rights. It is not to be released, reproduced or published without written permission
of the MOD.
16. The Crown reserves the right to amend or modify the contents of this NES without consulting
or informing any holder.
MOD Tender or Contract Process
17. This NES is the property of the Crown and unless otherwise authorized in writing by the MOD
must be returned on completion of the contract, or submission of the tender, in connection
with which it is issued.
18. When this NES is used in connection with a MOD tender or contract, the user is to ensure that
he is in possession of the appropriate version of each document, including related documents,
relevant to each particular tender or contract. Enquiries in this connection may be made of
the local MOD(PE) Quality Assurance Representative or the Authority named in the tender
or contract.
19. When NES are incorporated into MOD contracts, users are responsible for their correct
application and for complying with contracts and any other statutory requirements.
Compliance with an NES does not of itself confer immunity from legal obligations.
Related Documents
20. In the tender and procurement processes the related documents listed in each section and
Annex A can be obtained as follows:
a. British Standards British Standards Institution,

389 Chiswick High Road,
London W4 4AL
b. Defence Standards Directorate of Standardization and Safety Policy,

Stan 1, Kentigern House, 65 Brown Street,
Glasgow G2 8EX
c. Naval Engineering Standards CSE3a, CSE Llangennech, Llanelli,

Dyfed SA14 8YP
d. Other documents Tender or Contract Sponsor to advise.
Note: Tender or Contract Sponsor can advise in cases of difficulty.
21. All applications to Ministry Establishments for related documents are to quote the relevant
MOD Invitation to Tender or Contract Number and date, together with the sponsoring
Directorate and the Tender or Contract Sponsor.
vi
NES 147
22. Prime Contractors are responsible for supplying their subcontractors with relevant
documentation, including specifications, standards and drawings.
Health and Safety

Warning
23. This NES may call for the use of processes, substances and/or procedures that may be injurious
to health if adequate precautions are not taken. It refers only to technical suitability and in
no way absolves either the supplier or the user from statutory obligations relating to health
and safety at any stage of manufacture or use. Where attention is drawn to hazards, those
quoted may not necessarily be exhaustive.
vii
NES 147
viii
NES 147
CONTENTS
Page No
TITLE PAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i
SCOPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii
FOREWORD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v
Sponsorship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v
Conditions of Release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vi
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vi
MOD Tender or Contract Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vi
Related Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vi
Health and Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii
Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii
CONTENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ix
SECTION 1. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.1

1.1 Exceptions to Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.1
SECTION 2. THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE SHIP . . . . . . . . . 2.1

2.1 Inspections and Checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.1
SECTION 3. BUILDING REFERENCE LINES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.1

3.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.1
3.2 Building Lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.1
3.3 Longitudinal Middle Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.1
3.4 Keel Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.1
3.5 Perpendiculars and Other Lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.2
SECTION 4. DIMENSIONS AND TOLERANCES . . . . . . . . . . . 4.1
SECTION 5. MAINTENANCE OF FORM AND

DIMENSIONAL CONTROL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.1
5.1 Drawings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.1
5.2 Measurement Datums . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.1
5.3 Alignment Checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.1
SECTION 6. INSTALLATION OF WEAPONS AND

MACHINERY SEATINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6.1
TABLE 6.1 MEASUREMENT DATUMS . . . . . . . . 6.2
SECTION 7. CONTROL OF MAJOR OVERHANGING

STRUCTURE AND SHAFT ALIGNMENT . . . . . . 7.1
7.1 Itemizing the Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7.1
7.2 Precautions for Alignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7.1
7.3 Peculiarities of Type of Vessel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7.1
ANNEX A. RELATED DOCUMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A.1
ANNEX B. DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS . . . . . . . . B.1
ANNEX C. DIMENSIONAL ACCURACY OF JOINT PARTS C.1
ix
NES 147
FIGURE C.1 TOLERANCES ON PRINCIPAL

DIMENSIONS OF ASSEMBLED FLAT PANELS C.1
FIGURE C.2 TOLERANCES ON PRINCIPAL
DIMENSIONS OF ASSEMBLED CURVED
PANELS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C.2
FIGURE C.3 TOLERANCES ON ASSEMBLED
STIFFENER END POSITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C.3
FIGURE C.4 TOLERANCE ON ASSEMBLED
STIFFENING MEMBER ALIGNMENT . . . . . . . . C.4
FIGURE C.5 TOLERANCE ON WEB
ALIGNMENT OF BUTT WELDED
LONGITUDINALS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C.5
FIGURE C.6 TOLERANCE ON FLANGE
ALIGNMENT OF BUTT WELDED
LONGITUDINALS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C.6
FIGURE C.7 TOLERANCE ON JOINING OF
DISSIMILAR OFFSET BULB
LONGITUDINALS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C.7
FIGURE C.8 TOLERANCE ON GEOMETRY OF
FABRICATED LONGITUDINALS . . . . . . . . . . . . . C.8
FIGURE C.9 TOLERANCE ON GEOMETRY OF
FACE FLATS ON FRAME, WEBS ETC . . . . . . . . . C.9
FIGURE C.10 TOLERANCE ON GEOMETRY
OF ASSEMBLED STIFFENERS ON PLATE . . . . C.10
FIGURE C.11 TOLERANCE ON FACE FLAT
JOINT ALIGNMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C.11
FIGURE C.12 TOLERANCES ON OPENING
FOR STEEL DOOR SIZE AND POSITION . . . . . . C.12
FIGURE C.13 TOLERANCE ON OPENING
FOR STEEL DOOR SQUARENESS . . . . . . . . . . . . C.13
FIGURE C.14 TOLERANCES ON HATCH
COAMING LENGTH AND WIDTH . . . . . . . . . . . . C.14
FIGURE C.15 TOLERANCE ON HATCH
COAMING SQUARENESS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C.15
ANNEX D. DISTORTION AND COMPLETED DIMENSIONS D.1
FIGURE D.1 TOLERANCE ON BLOCK
ASSEMBLY SQUARENESS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D.1
FIGURE D.2 TOLERANCE ON BRACKET
FREE EDGES ALIGNMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D.2
FIGURE D.3 TOLERANCE ON PILLAR
ALIGNMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D.3
FIGURE D.4 TOLERANCES ON TRANSVERSE
SIDE FRAMES SPACING AND SPECIFIED
POSITION IN SHIP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D.4
WEB FRAMES SPACING AND SPECIFIED
FIGURE D.6 TOLERANCES AND
MEASUREMENT DATUMS FOR
LONGITUDINALS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D.6
FIGURE D.7 LONGITUDINAL BULKHEADS
MEASUREMENT DATUM AND TOLERANCES
ON SPACING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D.7
x
NES 147
FIGURE D.8 LONGITUDINAL BULKHEADS

ON SPACING OF STIFFENERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D.8
BULKHEAD SPACING AND SPECIFIED
FIGURE D.10 TRANVERSE BULKHEADS
ON SPACING OF STIFFENERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D.10
FIGURE D.11 CAMBER TOLERANCES . . . . . . . D.11
FIGURE D.12 DECKHEAD HEIGHT
MEASUREMENT DATUMS AND TOLERANCE
ON HEIGHTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D.12
FIGURE D.13 TOLERANCES ON SPECIAL
COMPARTMENTS INSIDE DIMENSIONS . . . . . D.13
FIGURE D.14 TOLERANCE ON FORE END
ALIGNMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D.14
FIGURE D.15 TOLERANCE ON AFT END
ALIGNMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D.15
FIGURE D.16 TOLERANCE ON RISE OF
FLOOR AMIDSHIPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D.16
FIGURE D.17 TOLERANCE ON FLATNESS
OF KEEL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D.17
FIGURE D.18 TOLERANCE ON FLATNESS
OF PLATED SURFACES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D.18
FIGURE D.19 TOLERANCES ON PRINCIPAL
DIMENSIONS OF SHIP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D.19
FIGURE D.20 ALIGNMENT OF
SUPERSTRUCTURE WITH MAIN BULKHEADS D.20
FIGURE D.21 ALIGNMENT OF
SUPERSTRUCTURE WITH MAIN FRAMES . . . D.21
ALPHABETICAL INDEX
xi
NES 147
xii
NES 147
1. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
a. The means by which the specified dimensions are achieved is the responsibility
of the Shipbuilder. Datum lines and planes must be established and maintained
in accordance with this NES. A standard method of measuring from the Datum
lines is given in this NES.
b. The methods by which the Shipbuilder proposes to achieve the tolerances are
to be submitted to the Ministry of Defence Quality Assurance Representative
(MOD QAR) if not previously in Shipbuilders’ Quality Plan.
c. In achieving the tolerances specified herein the Shipbuilder is to make

allowances for welding shrinkage, weld distortion and the effect of building
berth deflection as a result of progressive weight addition. The methods for
achieving this should be defined in the Shipbuilders’ Build Strategy Document.
d. For continuity of structure the alignment of stiffener joints (ie longitudinal and
vertical, transverse and vertical) is paramount. Allowances are to be made to
ensure alignment is achieved within the tolerances laid down in the
procurement specification.
e. The Shipbuilder is to provide any tools, instruments or services necessary for

the MOD QAR to carry out any inspections, tests or trials which he may require.
f. No inspection, test or trial by the MOD QAR will relieve the shipbuilder from
his responsibilities for the accuracy of the construction.
g. The Shipbuilder is to provide all work and material in accordance with the
specification. Nothing written or implied in this NES relieves the shipbuilder
of his responsibility for the accuracy, fairness and soundness of the structure.
1.1 Exceptions to Standards

a. Exceptions to standards are defined as being any proposed departures from that
specified in the standard including data sheets, illustrations and related
documents.
b. All proposed departures from this standard are to be referred to the MOD QAR
for consideration. The MOD decision regarding such variations is final.
c. Where other NES or contract documents specify tolerances that are tighter
than those defined in this standard, the tighter tolerances will take precedence.
1.1
NES 147
1.2
NES 147
2. THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE SHIP

a. The component parts and all primary and secondary structural members of the
vessel will be prepared individually, assembled into fabricated weldments, and
erected as a large integrated structure to comply with the Standards specified
in this NES and as applicable to the construction, installation and specification
drawings for the particular class of vessel.
2.1 Inspections and Checks

a. Visual inspection and dimensional checks of the structure are to be carried out
to ascertain the level of compliance with acceptance standards, the levels of
visible imperfections, building site suitability and the acceptability of material
production receipts (mill test certificates etc).
b. A system of inspections and checks are to be implemented in accordance with
AQAP 1 or AQAP 4. Typically the following aspects should be addressed:
(1) alignment:
(a) marking;
(b) edge preparation;
(c) component parts fabrication;
(d) alignment;
(e) sub-assembly.
(2) inaccuracies/deflections:
(a) accuracy of hull form;
(b) deformation of main structural members;
(c) panel distortion.
(3) finishing practices:
(a) surface defects;
(b) temporary openings;
(c) access openings;
(d) hatch coamings;
(e) tightness tests.
(4) welding geometry:
(5) defects in base material:
(a) surface defects;
(b) laminations.
(6) departures from design intent.
c. Each area of the vessel is to be inspected for damage, cracks and misalignment
in conjunction with a check of structural dimensions to ensure compliance with
specifications.
2.1
NES 147
d. All flame cut or machined edges of plates or other structural sections are to be
visually inspected for any exposed laminations before assembly.
e. Laminations that are detected, are to be confirmed by magnetic particle

inspection. The extent of the defect behind the exposed face is to be determined
by ultrasonic examination methods or exposed by chipping or flame gouging the
entire laminated area. The MOD QAR is to be consulted to determine the
acceptability of any material with laminations.
f. Defective areas requiring inspection are to be thoroughly cleared and cleaned

and sufficient time is to be allowed to permit inspection.
g. No defects in welds nor fabrications are to be permitted that are outside the
acceptance standards of DGS G10000 and are deficient and detrimental to the
tolerances specified in this standard.
2.2
NES 147
3. BUILDING REFERENCE LINES

3.1 General
a. The means of building a curvilinear shape such as ship’s hull is largely
dependent on the ability to define certain geometric points by measurement
(including primary and secondary co-ordinate systems) which are taken from
straight lines, planes and datum-lines. Such references are known as building
lines.
b. Albeit shipyards will have varying reference line systems an essential
requirement is that all such lines are to be consistently referred to throughout
the entire building process.
3.2 Building Lines
a. The shipbuilder is to set out and permanently mark-off lines on the building
berth.
b. Similar lines will be marked off to the extent required by the MOD QAR at any
other location where the ships structure is being assembled or erected as panels,
sub-units or main units.
c. In addition the Shipbuilder is to make sufficient reference marks on the
component parts to enable them to be aligned to the correct position.
Requirements for marking steel are to be found in NES 706 and NES 770 Part 1.
d. These marks may include frame stations, deck levels and level lines to enable
structure to be positioned and lined parallel to the middle line or other datum.
e. The use of such lines is described under the following headings. Shipbuilders
may use different systems from that described however each is to have
equivalent features:
(1) longitudinal centre lines;
(2) keel line;
(3) perpendiculars and other lines.
3.3 Longitudinal Middle Line
a. The longitudinal middle line may be offset and parallel to the actual middle line
by a specific amount in order to allow maintenance during the building period
with no impediment by keel blocks.
b. The Shipbuilder is to ensure that the middle line is permanently marked on the
decks, transverse bulkheads, deep beams and transom.
c. The middle line is normally marked on the weather deck, just before the
superstructure is erected, along the entire length of the hull, when this is
structurally complete on the berth. Subsequently the middle line is extended to
cover the entire length of the upper deck. It is also important to maintain the
middle line of the ship at the various deck levels. The line is directly related to
the building berth middle line datum.
3.4 Keel Line
a. The keel line is sometimes called the line of keel and should not be confused with
the base plane. The keel line should be set up independent of keel blocks and
should be offset from but parallel to the middle line by a known amount to allow
maintenance throughout the building period.
3.1
NES 147
3.5 Perpendiculars and Other Lines

a. Lines representing perpendiculars, transom, watertight bulkheads and any
other transverse or longitudinal lines, or planes required to measure offsets,
half breadths, lengths, levels or heights, should be used to obtain and maintain
the accuracy of ship construction, during its period of building.
3.2
NES 147
4. DIMENSIONS AND TOLERANCES

a. The permissible dimensions and tolerances are specified in FIGURE C.1 to
FIGURE D.21 at Annexes C. and D. FIGURE C.1 to FIGURE C.15 covers the
dimensional accuracy of joint parts and FIGURE D.1 to FIGURE D.21 covers
distortion and completed dimensions. The values shown in FIGURE C.1 to
FIGURE D.21 are the upper limits of deviation from specified dimensions. All
dimensions are in millimetres.
b. The contractual documents, specifications and drawings will define the specific
dimensions and structural arrangements of both Primary and Secondary
structure. Primary and Secondary structures are defined in Annex B.
c. The dimensions and tolerances quoted apply to the completed structure or

compartment, ie when all welding in the vicinity has been completed and NDE
checks complete. It is, however, the Shipbuilder’s responsibility to work within
any quoted tolerance, and regular measurements and checks are to be made as
necessary during construction.
d. The adoption of closer tolerances may be essential in certain compartments,

either because special equipment has to be fitted or because any reduction in
space would be unacceptable. Such compartments or spaces will be specified in
design information.
e. Tolerances are divided into two groups viz:
(1) Dimensional accuracy of joint parts

Figure No Title
FIGURE C.1 Tolerances on principal dimensions of assembled flat panels
FIGURE C.2 Tolerances on principal dimensions of assembled curved panels
FIGURE C.3 Tolerances on position of assembled stiffener end positions
FIGURE C.4 Tolerance on assembled stiffening member alignment
FIGURE C.5 Tolerance on web alignment of butt welded longitudinals
FIGURE C.6 Tolerance on flange alignment of butt welded longitudinals
FIGURE C.7 Tolerance on joining of dissimilar offset bulb longitudinals
FIGURE C.8 Tolerance on geometry of fabricated longitudinals
FIGURE C.9 Tolerance on geometry of face flats on frames, webs, etc
FIGURE C.10 Tolerance on geometry of assembled stiffeners on plate
FIGURE C.11 Tolerance on face flat joint alignment
FIGURE C.12 Tolerances on opening for steel door size and position
FIGURE C.13 Tolerance on opening for steel door squareness
FIGURE C.14 Tolerances on hatch coaming length and width
FIGURE C.15 Tolerance on hatch coaming squareness
4.1
NES 147
(2) Distortion and completed dimensions

Figure No Title
FIGURE D.1 Tolerance on block assembly squareness
FIGURE D.2 Tolerance on bracket free edges alignment
FIGURE D.3 Tolerance on pillar alignment
FIGURE D.4 Tolerances on transverse side frames spacing and specified posi-
tion in ship
FIGURE D.5 Tolerances on transverse web frames spacing and specified posi-
tion in ship
FIGURE D.6 Tolerances and measurement datums for longitudinals
FIGURE D.7 Longitudinal bulkheads measurement datum and tolerances on
spacing
FIGURE D.8 Longitudinal bulkheads measurement datums and tolerances on
spacing of stiffeners
FIGURE D.9 Tolerances on transverse bulkhead spacing and specified position
in ship
FIGURE D.10 Transverse bulkheads measurement datum and tolerances and
spacing of stiffeners
FIGURE D.11 Camber tolerances
FIGURE D.12 Deckhead height measurement datums and tolerance on heights
FIGURE D.13 Tolerances on special compartments inside dimensions
FIGURE D.14 Tolerance on fore end alignment
FIGURE D.15 Tolerance on aft end alignment
FIGURE D.16 Tolerance on rise of floor amidships
FIGURE D.17 Tolerance on flatness of keel
FIGURE D.18 Tolerance on flatness of plated surfaces
FIGURE D.19 Tolerances on principal dimensions of ship
FIGURE D.20 Alignment of superstructure with main bulkheads
FIGURE D.21 Alignment of superstructure with main frames.
4.2
NES 147
5. MAINTENANCE OF FORM AND DIMENSIONAL CONTROL

a. It is the Shipbuilders responsibility to establish and disseminate internally
control procedures to ensure that the form and dimensions of the ship are
within the specified tolerances. MOD Form D240 ‘Principal Dimensions of
Ships’ is to be completed in accordance with the requirements of NES 24.
b. These procedures are to reflect the method and means of building the ship, and
are to ensure that dimensional checks are made at all stages of assembly and
erection to enable corrective action to be taken if necessary.
5.1 Drawings
a. In the preparation of hull steelwork drawings, the thickness of a structural
member is generally represented by a single line. To ensure correct assembly the
single line is to be interpreted as a reference plane in accordance with
TABLE 6.1.
5.2 Measurement Datums

a. Measurement datums relating to varying structural members and their
location are defined in TABLE 6.1 under the following headings:
(1) deckhead heights—(tween decks);
(2) deck longitudinals and girders;
(3) shell longitudinals;
(4) longitudinal bulkheads;
(5) transverse bulkheads;
(6) transverse frames;
(7) bulkhead stiffeners.
5.3 Alignment Checks

a. Regular breakage checks are to be made whilst the vessel is being assembled on
the berth, at launch and docking on the line of keel and as required by NES 145.
In addition regular alignment checks such as the squareness of bulkheads and
the relative position of units and sub-units to each other and to the various
established reference lines are to be made.
5.1
NES 147
5.2
NES 147
6. INSTALLATION OF WEAPONS AND MACHINERY SEATINGS

a. This section describes the requirement to ensure accuracy of installation of the
seatings and supporting structures.
b. Seatings for weapons and associated equipment and for major machinery items,
together with any supporting structure is to be designed within the guide-lines
laid down in NES 150, and is to be erected, aligned and installed in accordance
with the appropriate installation specification and relevant structural
drawings.
c. In the case of seats for propulsion and auxiliary machinery, attention is drawn
to the requirements specified in NES 155 Part 1.
d. Particular attention is to be given to flatness of seats where metal chocks or

resilient mountings are to be fitted. Seats are not to be aligned and permanently
installed until all under deck stiffening is in position and fully welded.
e. Distortion must be kept to a minimum by correct selection of structural erection

sequences and welding completion. The general principles for avoiding
distortion are to be found in NES 706.
f. The installation specification are to include requirements for:
(1) materials;
(2) equipment installation procedures;
(3) installation or erection sequence;
(4) test requirements.
6.1
NES 147
Unit or Component Reference Plane Refer to

Deckhead heights Underside of plating to underside of FIGURE D.12
plating measured at main transverse
bulkheads on middle line and at ship’s
side, port and starboard, also at
junction with any longitudinal
bulkheads.
Deck longitudinals Measured from middle line of ship to FIGURE D.6
inboard surface of web.
Shell longitudinals Measured from middle line of ship to FIGURE D.6
inboard surface of web at junction with
shell or from base plane to lower
surface of web at junction shell.
Longitudinal bulkheads Measured from middle line of ship to FIGURE D.7
inboard surface of the bulkhead. For
longitudinal bulkheads on middle line
of the ship, the middle line of the
bulkhead plating is to align with the
middle line of the ship.
Transverse bulkheads To be measured from amidships: FIGURE D.9
Forward—to the forward side of the
bulkheads
Aft—to the aft side of the bulkheads.
Transverse frames To be measured to the forward side of FIGURE D.4,
the web fwd of amidships, aft side of FIGURE D.5
web aft of amidships. For a frame
amidships, aft side of web is to be
coincident with amidships.
Bulkhead stiffeners 1. Longitudinal Bulkheads. All FIGURE D.8
measurements of stiffeners taken to
the forward side of the web forward of
amidships and to the after side of the
web aft of amidships. For a stiffener
amidships the aft side of the web is to
be coincident with amidships.
2. Transverse Bulkheads. All FIGURE D.10
measurements taken to inboard side of
stiffener web.
TABLE 6.1 MEASUREMENT DATUMS
6.2
NES 147
7. CONTROL OF MAJOR OVERHANGING STRUCTURE AND SHAFT

ALIGNMENT
a. It is the builders responsibility to define procedures for the support of major
overhanging structure during erection. These procedures are to consider the
following:
(1) itemizing the work;
(2) precautions adopted for alignment;
(3) peculiarities of Type of Vessel.
7.1 Itemizing the Work

a. The builder is to take special care in devising and subsequently developing the
methods and arrangements to support major overhanging structure during the
building process. This is to include, for example, the stern portion of the vessel
aft of the cut-up or propeller aperture.
7.2 Precautions for Alignment

a. The method of building may involve the stern units being built as a separate
main unit, or a number of sub-units. Whichever is adopted the builder is to take
sufficient precautions in the alignment and support of such structures, so that
when they are completely welded, and all major weights are installed, they will
comply with the specified form and align truly with the remainder of the hull
after all supports have been removed, ie when the ‘stern has dropped’.
b. ‘Stern Drop’ is not acceptable or permissible until all main structural welding
has been completed.
c. Shaft alignment is not acceptable or permissible until all stern requirements

and connections have been completed and approved.
7.3 Peculiarities of Type of Vessel

a. Design of block units and the erection sequence of blocks will be determined by
the shipbuilder to suit the peculiarities of the type of vessel concerned and to
suit the yard’s practices and capabilities, and is to be defined in the
Shipbuilders’ Build Strategy document.
7.1
NES 147
7.2
NES 147
ANNEX A.
RELATED DOCUMENTS
A.1 Reference is made to:
See Clause
AQAP 1 NATO Requirements for an Industrial 2.1b.
Quality Control System
AQAP 4 NATO Inspection System Requirements 2.1b.
for Industry
NES 24 Reports, Forms and Certificates required 5.a.
during the Design and Build of MOD Ships
and Craft
NES 145 Code of Practice for Taking Breakage 5.3a.
NES 150 Guide for the Design of Auxiliary 6.b.
Machinery Seatings
NES 155 Requirement for Structural Practices in 6.c.
Steel Surface Ships
Part 1: General Requirements
NES 706 Welding and Fabrication of Ships 3.2c., 6.e.
Structure
NES 729 Requirements for Non-Destructive
Examination Methods
Part 2: Magnetic Particle 1.f.
Part 5: Ultrasonic 1.a.
NES 770 Welding and Fabrication of Q1N, HY80 3.2c.
and QT35 Steel
Part 1: General
DGS G10000 Minimum Acceptance Standards for Welds 2.1g.
in HM Ships and Submarines
MOD Form D240 Principal Dimension of Ships 5.a.
A.1 ANNEX A.
NES 147
ANNEX A. A.2
NES 147
ANNEX B.
DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS
B.1 For the purpose of this NES the following definitions apply:
Primary Structure Primary structure is defined as that structure
which contributes to the main structural strength
of the ship. It includes hull plates, frames,
longitudinal stiffeners, and principal decks, main
transverse bulkheads, and any structure so
designated by the Design Authority.
Secondary Structure Secondary structure is defined as that structure
that does not contribute to the main structural
strength of the hull, but does contribute to the
watertight integrity and support of local loading. It
includes bulkheads, non principal decks, floors,
seats and any remaining structure so designated
by the Design Authority.
B.1 ANNEX B.
NES 147
ANNEX B. B.2
NES 147
ANNEX C.
DIMENSIONAL ACCURACY OF JOINT PARTS
FIGURE C.1 TOLERANCES ON PRINCIPAL DIMENSIONS OF ASSEMBLED FLAT PANELS
C.1 ANNEX C.
NES 147
FIGURE C.2 TOLERANCES ON PRINCIPAL DIMENSIONS OF

ASSEMBLED CURVED PANELS
ANNEX C. C.2
NES 147
FIGURE C.3 TOLERANCES ON ASSEMBLED STIFFENER END POSITIONS
C.3 ANNEX C.
NES 147
FIGURE C.4 TOLERANCE ON ASSEMBLY STIFFENING MEMBER ALIGNMENT
ANNEX C. C.4
NES 147
FIGURE C.5 TOLERANCE ON WEB ALIGNMENT OF BUTT WELDED LONGITUDINALS
C.5 ANNEX C.
NES 147
FIGURE C.6 TOLERANCE ON FLANGE ALIGNMENT OF BUTT

WELDED LONGITUDINALS
ANNEX C. C.6
NES 147
1. When a is 0.2F1 or less: See FIGURE C.6
FIGURE C.7 TOLERANCE ON JOINING OF DISSIMILAR OFFSET BULB LONGITUDINALS
C.7 ANNEX C.
NES 147
FIGURE C.8 TOLERANCE ON GEOMETRY OF FABRICATED LONGITUDINALS
ANNEX C. C.8
NES 147
FIGURE C.9 TOLERANCE ON GEOMETRY OF FACE FLATS ON FRAME, WEBS ETC
C.9 ANNEX C.
NES 147
FIGURE C.10 TOLERANCE ON GEOMETRY OF ASSEMBLED STIFFENERS ON PLATE
ANNEX C. C.10
NES 147
FIGURE C.11 TOLERANCE ON FACE FLAT JOINT ALIGNMENT
C.11 ANNEX C.
NES 147
FIGURE C.12 TOLERANCES ON OPENING FOR STEEL DOOR SIZE AND POSITION
ANNEX C. C.12
NES 147
FIGURE C.13 TOLERANCE ON OPENING FOR STEEL DOOR SQUARENESS
C.13 ANNEX C.
NES 147
FIGURE C.14 TOLERANCES ON HATCH COAMING LENGTH AND WIDTH
ANNEX C. C.14
NES 147
FIGURE C.15 TOLERANCE ON HATCH COAMING SQUARENESS
C.15 ANNEX C.
NES 147
ANNEX C. C.16
NES 147
ANNEX D.
DISTORTION AND COMPLETED DIMENSIONS
FIGURE D.1 TOLERANCE ON BLOCK ASSEMBLY SQUARENESS
D.1 ANNEX D.
NES 147
FIGURE D.2 TOLERANCE ON BRACKET FREE EDGES ALIGNMENT
ANNEX D. D.2
NES 147
FIGURE D.3 TOLERANCE ON PILLAR ALIGNMENT
D.3 ANNEX D.
NES 147
FIGURE D.4 TOLERANCES ON TRANSVERSE SIDE FRAMES SPACING AND

SPECIFIED POSITION IN SHIP
ANNEX D. D.4
NES 147
See FIGURE D.7 for tolerance

on shell longitudinals
FIGURE D.5 TOLERANCES ON TRANSVERSE WEB FRAMES SPACING AND

D.5 ANNEX D.
NES 147
FIGURE D.6 TOLERANCES AND MEASUREMENT DATUMS FOR LONGITUDINALS
ANNEX D. D.6
NES 147
This tolerance is excluding plate distortion—See FIGURE D.18
FIGURE D.7 LONGITUDINAL BULKHEADS MEASUREMENT DATUM AND

TOLERANCES ON SPACING
D.7 ANNEX D.
NES 147
For longitudinal stiffening

spacing to be as FIGURE D.6
See FIGURE C.4 for alignment of stiffening members
FIGURE D.8 LONGITUDINAL BULKHEADS MEASUREMENT DATUM AND

TOLERANCES ON SPACING OF STIFFENERS
ANNEX D. D.8
NES 147
FIGURE D.9 TOLERANCES ON TRANSVERSE BULKHEAD SPACING AND

D.9 ANNEX D.
NES 147
See FIGURE C.4 for alignment of stiffening members
FIGURE D.10 TRANSVERSE BULKHEADS MEASUREMENT DATUM AND

TOLERANCES ON SPACING OF STIFFENERS
ANNEX D. D.10
NES 147
See also FIGURE D.12 for deckhead heights
FIGURE D.11 CAMBER TOLERANCES
D.11 ANNEX D.
NES 147
FIGURE D.12 DECKHEAD HEIGHT MEASUREMENT DATUMS AND

TOLERANCE ON HEIGHTS
ANNEX D. D.12
NES 147
FIGURE D.13 TOLERANCES ON SPECIAL COMPARTMENTS INSIDE DIMENSIONS
D.13 ANNEX D.
NES 147
FIGURE D.14 TOLERANCE ON FORE END ALIGNMENT
ANNEX D. D.14
NES 147
FIGURE D.15 TOLERANCE ON AFT END ALIGNMENT
D.15 ANNEX D.
NES 147
FIGURE D.16 TOLERANCE ON RISE OF FLOOR AMIDSHIPS
ANNEX D. D.16
NES 147
For alignment of Fore End see FIGURE D.14

For alignment of Aft End see FIGURE D.15
FIGURE D.17 TOLERANCE ON FLATNESS OF KEEL
D.17 ANNEX D.
NES 147
Note: In no instance may the values of FIGURE D.17 be exceeded.
FIGURE D.18 TOLERANCE ON FLATNESS OF PLATED SURFACES
ANNEX D. D.18
NES 147
FIGURE D.19 TOLERANCES ON PRINCIPAL DIMENSIONS OF SHIP
D.19 ANNEX D.
NES 147
FIGURE D.20 ALIGNMENT OF SUPERSTRUCTURE WITH MAIN BULKHEADS
ANNEX D. D.20
NES 147
FIGURE D.21 ALIGNMENT OF SUPERSTRUCTURE WITH MAIN FRAMES
D.21 ANNEX D.
NES 147
ANNEX D. D.22
NES 147
ALPHABETICAL INDEX
A
Aft End, 4.1, FIGURE D.15
Alignment, 2.1
AQAP1 and AQAP4, 2.1
B
Brackets, 1.1
Breakage, 4.1, FIGURE D.2
Build Strategy Document, 1.1
Building Lines, 3.1
Bulkhead
Alignment of superstructure with, FIGURE D.20
Datum, 4.1
Location, 4.1, FIGURE D.7, FIGURE D.9
Spacing, 4.1, FIGURE D.7, FIGURE D.9
C
Camber, 4.1, FIGURE D.11
D
Datum lines, 1.1, 2.1, 4.1, 5.1
Deckhead, 3.1, 4.1, FIGURE D.12
Definitions, B.1
Door, 4.1, FIGURE C.12, FIGURE C.13
Drawings, 5.1
E
Exceptions to Standards, 1.1
F
Face Flats, 4.1, FIGURE C.9, FIGURE C.11
Flatness
Keel, 4.1, FIGURE D.17
Plate, 4.1, FIGURE D.18
Fore End, 4.1
Form—MOD Form D240, 5.1
Frame
Alignment of superstructure with, FIGURE D.21
Datum, 1.1
Location, 4.1
Spacing, 4.1
INDEX.1 INDEX
NES 147
G
General requirements, 1.1
H
Hatch, 3.1, FIGURE C.14, FIGURE C.15
I
Inspection, 1.1, 2.1
K
Keel Blocks, 3.1
Keel Line, 3.1
L
Laminations, 2.2
Longitudinals
Datum, 4.1, FIGURE D.6
Fabricated, 4.1, FIGURE C.8
Flange, 4.1, FIGURE C.6
Middle Line, 3.1
Off Set Bulb, 4.1, FIGURE C.7
Web, 4.1, FIGURE C.5
M
Magnetic particle, 2.2
MOD QAR, 1.1, 2.2
O
Overhang, 7.1
P
Panels
Curved, 4.1, FIGURE C.2
Flat, 4.1, FIGURE C.1
Perpendiculars, 3.2, FIGURE D.19
Pillars, 4.1, FIGURE D.3
Primary Structure, 4.1, B.1
Principal Dimensions, 4.1, FIGURE D.19
Q
Quality Plan, iii, 1.1
INDEX INDEX.2
NES 147
R
Reference Marks, 3.1
Related Documents, A.1
Rise of Floor, 4.1, FIGURE D.16
S
Scope, iii
Seating, 6.1
Secondary Structure, 4.1, B.1
Shaft, 7.1
Special Compartments, 4.1, FIGURE D.13
Squareness, 4.1, FIGURE D.1
Stern Drop, 7.1
Stiffener, 4.1, FIGURE C.3, FIGURE C.4, FIGURE C.10, FIGURE D.8, FIGURE D.10
Superstructure, FIGURE D.20, FIGURE D.21
T
Tolerances, 1.1
U
Ultrasonics, 2.2
W
Welding, 1.1, 2.2
INDEX.3 INDEX
NES 147
INDEX INDEX.4
Inside Rear Cover
© Crown Copyright 2000
Copying Only as Agreed with DStan
Defence Standards are Published by and Obtainable from:
Defence Procurement Agency

An Executive Agency of The Ministry of Defence
Directorate of Standardization
Kentigern House
65 Brown Street
GLASGOW G2 8EX
DStan Helpdesk
Tel 0141 224 2531/2

Fax 0141 224 2503
Internet e-mail enquiries@dstan.mod.uk
File Reference
The DStan file reference relating to work on this standard is D/DStan/69/02/147.
Contract Requirements
When Defence Standards are incorporated into contracts users are responsible for their correct
application and for complying with contractual and statutory requirements. Compliance with
a Defence Standard does not in itself confer immunity from legal obligations.
Revision of Defence Standards
Defence Standards are revised as necessary by up issue or amendment. It is important that

users of Defence Standards should ascertain that they are in possession of the latest issue or
amendment. Information on all Defence Standards is contained in Def Stan 00-00 Standards
for Defence Part 3 , Index of Standards for Defence Procurement Section 4 ‘Index of Defence
Standards and Defence Specifications’ published annually and supplemented regularly by
Standards in Defence News (SID News). Any person who, when making use of a Defence
Standard encounters an inaccuracy or ambiguity is requested to notify the Directorate of
Standardization (DStan) without delay in order that the matter may be investigated and
appropriate action taken.

NES-147 Requirements Building Accuracy Const Ss

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

NES-147 Requirements Building Accuracy Const Ss

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Ministry of Defence

Defence Standard 02-147 (NES 147)

The Requirements For Building

Incorporating NES 147 Category 2

Amd No Date Text Affected Signature and Date

This standard is raised to Issue 1 to update its content.

This standard supersedes the following:

Naval Engineering Standard (NES) 147 Issue 3 dated July 1991

Naval Engineering Standard

NES 147 Issue 3 (Reformatted) July 1991

THE REQUIREMENTS FOR BUILDING ACCURACY

NES 147 ISSUE 2

AMDT INSERTED BY DATE

1 Keith A Spinks—SEA 1 June 1995

THE REQUIREMENTS FOR BUILDING ACCURACY

DURING CONSTRUCTION OF SURFACE SHIPS

The issue and use of this Standard

is authorized for use in MOD contracts

by MOD(PE) Sea Systems and

the Naval Support Command

Director of Naval Architecture

3. Typical illustrations are included to convey the permissible variations on dimensions,

4. Accuracy requirements are also included for:

a. the installations of seatings for machinery and weapons and;

b. the control of major overhanging structure and shaft alignment.

9. No alteration is to be made to this NES except by the issue of an authorized amendment.

a. British Standards British Standards Institution,

b. Defence Standards Directorate of Standardization and Safety Policy,

c. Naval Engineering Standards CSE3a, CSE Llangennech, Llanelli,

d. Other documents Tender or Contract Sponsor to advise.

Note: Tender or Contract Sponsor can advise in cases of difficulty.

Health and Safety

SECTION 1. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.1

SECTION 2. THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE SHIP . . . . . . . . . 2.1

SECTION 3. BUILDING REFERENCE LINES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.1

SECTION 4. DIMENSIONS AND TOLERANCES . . . . . . . . . . . 4.1

SECTION 5. MAINTENANCE OF FORM AND

SECTION 6. INSTALLATION OF WEAPONS AND

SECTION 7. CONTROL OF MAJOR OVERHANGING

FIGURE C.1 TOLERANCES ON PRINCIPAL

FIGURE D.8 LONGITUDINAL BULKHEADS

c. In achieving the tolerances specified herein the Shipbuilder is to make

e. The Shipbuilder is to provide any tools, instruments or services necessary for

1.1 Exceptions to Standards

2. THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE SHIP

2.1 Inspections and Checks

e. Laminations that are detected, are to be confirmed by magnetic particle

f. Defective areas requiring inspection are to be thoroughly cleared and cleaned

3. BUILDING REFERENCE LINES

3.5 Perpendiculars and Other Lines

4. DIMENSIONS AND TOLERANCES

c. The dimensions and tolerances quoted apply to the completed structure or

d. The adoption of closer tolerances may be essential in certain compartments,

e. Tolerances are divided into two groups viz:

(1) Dimensional accuracy of joint parts

(2) Distortion and completed dimensions

5. MAINTENANCE OF FORM AND DIMENSIONAL CONTROL

5.2 Measurement Datums

(1) deckhead heights—(tween decks);

(2) deck longitudinals and girders;

(3) shell longitudinals;

(4) longitudinal bulkheads;

(5) transverse bulkheads;

(6) transverse frames;