BRL-Type Refrigerated Concrete Barges of World War II
During the logistical pressures of the 1940s, the United States employed innovative shipbuilding materials to maintain supply lines. Among these were the BRL-type refrigerated concrete barges, specialized vessels designed to store perishable provisions in challenging maritime environments.
Design and Construction
According to a 1945 report in the Pacific Marine Review, Concrete Ship Constructors in National City, California, completed three of these vessels (Hulls Nos. 45, 46, and 47) for delivery to the U.S. Army. These barges utilized reinforced concrete hulls—a durable alternative to steel during wartime shortages.
The physical specifications of these hulls were substantial, measuring 265 feet (81 m) in length, 48 feet (15 m) in beam (width), and 17 feet (5.2 m) in depth. To support their refrigeration capabilities, the barges featured an insulated wooden deckhouse and diesel-driven generators. These generators powered the essential refrigeration machinery, which included two 50-ton York ice machines.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]
Operational History: BRL-3071
One specific example of these vessels, the BRL-3071, is documented in the U.S. Navy logistics history Beans, Bullets, and Black Oil. This vessel served as a 1,000-ton refrigerated provision storage barge stationed at Buckner Bay, Okinawa.
In early August 1945, the stores ship Latona utilized BRL-3071 to unload cargo, allowing for the refrigerated storage and subsequent issuance of supplies to personnel both ashore and afloat. Additionally, the Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual (1953 revision) credits BRL-3071 with campaign participation between June 13 and June 30, 1945.
Key Facts
- Manufacturer: Concrete Ship Constructors, National City, California.
- Hull Material: Reinforced concrete.
- Dimensions: 265 ft long, 48 ft beam, 17 ft depth.
- Cooling Equipment: Two 50-ton York ice machines powered by diesel generators.
- Capacity: BRL-3071 was rated as a 1,000-ton storage barge.
- Primary Role: Refrigerated storage and issuance of provisions.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Length | 265 feet (81 m) |
| Beam | 48 feet (15 m) |
| Depth | 17 feet (5.2 m) |
| Deckhouse Material | Insulated wood |
| Power Source | Diesel-driven generators |
| Refrigeration | Two 50-ton York ice machines |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who constructed the BRL-type refrigerated barges?
They were built by Concrete Ship Constructors located in National City, California.
What materials were used in the construction of these barges?
The hulls were made of reinforced concrete, while the deckhouses were constructed from insulated wood.
What was the purpose of BRL-3071 at Buckner Bay?
BRL-3071 served as a 1,000-ton refrigerated provision storage barge used to receive cargo from ships like the Latona for distribution to forces ashore and afloat.
How was the refrigeration machinery powered?
The refrigeration systems, including two 50-ton York ice machines, were powered by onboard diesel-driven generators.
When did BRL-3071 participate in official campaigns?
According to the Navy and Marine Corps Awards Manual, BRL-3071 is credited with service from June 13 to June 30, 1945.