TM 55-607/NAVSEA OP 3221 Rev 2
(1) Block stow. Subsequent to the erection of encasement structures and the installation of sheathing
material, block stowage begins at both ends of the barge. Cargo is stowed alternately against each side, and the loading
progresses toward the center line. All voids are made to occur along both the athwartship and the longitudinal center
line. This stowage method was described in paragraph 8-2, and for all practical purposes the LASH lighter can be
considered an amidship tween-deck compartment. Figure 10-5 illustrates the development of a block stow in a LASH
lighter. As described in paragraph 8-3, final blocking of the center line voids with full-block structures will take place after
the cargo is in place. The advantage of this pattern is a symmetrical load pattern positioned tightly against the hull of the
lighter. This results in simple sheathing requirements and basic encasement structures that can be prepared in advance
because of their standard size.
Figure 10-5. Basic block-stowage pattern.
10-7
