A hartog plate is a small metal plate that is attached to the bottom of a boat or ship. It is usually made of brass or bronze and has a special design that helps protect the boat's hull from damage caused by rocks, debris, and other obstacles in the water. The plate is named after its inventor, Pieter Hartog, who was a Dutch naval architect.
The hartog plate works by creating a small raised edge that sits just below the water line. This edge helps to deflect any obstacles that the boat may encounter in the water, preventing them from hitting the more vulnerable parts of the hull.
Think of it like a bumper on a car. A car's bumper is designed to protect the front and rear of the vehicle from damage caused by minor collisions. Similarly, the hartog plate is designed to protect the hull of a boat from damage caused by minor collisions with rocks, logs, and other underwater hazards.
Overall, the hartog plate is an important component of many boats and ships, helping to ensure that they can navigate safely through the water without sustaining damage to their hulls.