Bulkheads

A bulkhead is a vertical or horizontal partition that divides a vessel, building, or other structure into separate compartments. In ships and submarines, bulkheads reinforce the hull, help contain flooding, and provide structural rigidity. The term can also apply to interior partitions used in architecture and industrial design.

In ships, bulkheads extend from the keel to the deck and are usually watertight or fire-rated. Watertight bulkheads limit the progression of water in a flooding event by isolating compartments; watertight doors allow controlled access while maintaining the barrier. Fire bulkheads slow the spread of flame and smoke and are often rated for a specified duration. Classification societies and safety conventions such as SOLAS govern bulkhead integrity and door specifications.

Bulkheads also appear in aircraft and submarines; in aircraft, they separate cabins, galleys, and cargo holds, and pressure bulkheads protect the pressurized sections from structural loads. In buildings, bulkheads may refer to non-load-bearing partitions, or to overhead structures concealing services or forming ceiling tiers; sometimes they serve as decorative features or to change room proportions. In industrial contexts, bulkhead panels and bulkhead fittings provide sealed access points on ships, tanks, or cabinets.

Materials for bulkheads vary with purpose, including steel, aluminum, and composites for marine and aerospace uses, and gypsum board or masonry for buildings. They are designed to bear loads, resist buckling, and accommodate doors, hatches, or openings. Fire resistance, insulation, and acoustic performance are common design considerations.

Maintenance involves inspection for corrosion, seal integrity, and door hardware. Damaged bulkheads can compromise buoyancy and safety, so damaged sections are evaluated and repaired following relevant standards.