What is the purpose of the steel fittings with handles on watertight doors?

The steel fittings with handles on watertight doors serve multiple important functions, making the chosen answer comprehensive. First, they are designed to secure the door in place, ensuring that it remains tightly shut under various pressure conditions, particularly in the face of flooding or water intrusion. This careful sealing is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the compartment and preventing the spread of water throughout the vessel.

In addition to securing the door, these fittings also contribute to the watertight nature of the door itself. The design of the fittings, along with the overall construction of the door, works to create a reliable barrier that helps seal the compartment from water.

Preventing water ingress is a fundamental objective of watertight doors, and the steel fittings play an integral role in achieving this. They are engineered to provide a strong, durable interface that keeps water out, ensuring the safety and stability of the vessel.

In summary, the steel fittings with handles on watertight doors are essential for securing the door, making it watertight, and preventing water ingress, which is why the correct response encompasses all of these aspects.