Why Waterborne Transportation Preferred Wood Despite Steel's Superior Strength
Time-tested techniques often outweigh technological advancements, especially in critical industries such as maritime transportation. Why did people opt for wood over steel when building boats, even though modern metallurgy has proven steel to be a superior material? This article explores the historical context, accessibility, and practicality of wooden ships over their metallic counterparts.
Historical Context of Wooden Ships
Wood has been the primary material for constructing boats and ships for millennia. Prior to the invention of steel, around 1000 years ago, wood was in plentiful supply naturally, whereas steel was a man-made alloy barely recognized in early human societies. This natural availability was one of the key factors leading to the widespread use of wood in shipbuilding.
The technology necessary to produce sufficient quantities of quality iron/steel was not well-established until later. In ancient times, iron smelting was a labor-intensive process that required a significant amount of work to produce a small quantity of usable iron. This process was expensive and time-consuming, making iron a premium material that could be used for swords and other small, high-value items but not for extensive ship construction.
Practicality and Accessibility of Wood
Wood was not only widely available but also easy to work with hand tools. Plans for wooden ships were already well-established, making it a logical choice for early human civilizations. Throughout history, materials have been used based on what was available, as seen in the use of papyrus by ancient Egyptians, willow and sheep skins by Welsh tribes to create coracles, and the simple balsa logs used byPolynesians to construct thePacific kon tiki expeditions. The choice of materials often stems from what is readily available and easy to manipulate.
Even today, the principles of using locally available resources continue to influence maritime technology. For instance, a metal ship built without modern fasteners like welding, riveting, or bolting would be nearly impossible. Even using nails without modern hammers and electric tools would be impractical, emphasizing the complex interplay between materials and technology.
Evolving Maritime Technology
The progression from the first "ship" – a simple floaty log – to the intricate constructions of today’s vessels showcases how materials and tools evolve. The construction of early floaty logs by accident, such as when Ung and Thrung accidentally drifted down a river, illustrates the natural progression from simple to complex. With each advancement in technology, materials like wood were refined and improved upon, leading to more sophisticated ships.
From the versatile and durable wooden ships that dominated the seas for centuries to the advanced steel ships of today, human innovation has continuously pushed the boundaries of maritime engineering. However, the foundational role of wood in establishing seafaring as a critical aspect of human civilization cannot be overstated.
Conclusion
Despite steel's superior strength, the use of wood for shipbuilding remained predominant for millennia due to its natural availability, ease of workability, and established techniques. As societies evolved, the principles of using locally available and easy-to-manipulate materials continued to guide maritime technology, eventually leading to the development of more modern and durable materials like steel. The transition from wooden to metallic ships represents a fascinating journey of innovation and adaptation in the face of changing technological advancements.