Luc;
The documentary I was watching was aimed at confirming if that theory was correct or incorrect. It was prooven that for the period, Titanic was plenty strong and would of sustained herself, however, later in her service life, would of had cracking problems in the deck area surrounding the expansion joint, I think the aft of the two joints in the superstructure. It was discovered that Olympic had a lot of structural issues as she aged due to the design of the joints.
I know the purpose of the expansion joints - and the concept of the joints make sense. I am not criticizing that. What I ma criticizing was the design of the joint. It was, however, at the time deemed very acceptable . . . So no shame on them for not knowing better?
I too believe Titanic was built quite strong and she did well in her sinking, considering what she was designed and built with. I think, should she had a larger rudder and certain manuever orders not had been given, Titanic may not of even gone down. However, that is not what happened. I think ignorance, in many ways, lead to the collision. I think there is a lot to be learned from both that and from the design of the vessel, not to mention it shows good quality materials matter.
However, it was a tragedy, in many, many ways. It is fun, however, to be on a ship in rough seas and to see the joints in action - looking down a transverse corridor in rough seas does a good job of messing with your head. HA HA HA!
