What is the primary purpose of stiffeners in a vessel?

The primary purpose of stiffeners in a vessel is to support the structure and prevent buckling. Stiffeners are structural elements added to the hull or other areas of a vessel to increase strength and rigidity. They help distribute loads more evenly across the structure, reducing stress concentrations and enhancing the overall stability and integrity of the vessel. Without adequate stiffening, the hull might bend or distort under various loads, such as waves or cargo weight, potentially leading to structural failure.

While heat insulation is important in certain parts of a vessel, especially in areas dealing with extreme temperatures, it is not the function of stiffeners. Reducing draft and improving stability are outcomes that might be indirectly related to the overall structural integrity and design of the vessel, but they are not the primary roles of stiffeners. Instead, the main focus is enhancing the vessel's structural capability to withstand operational stresses.