Submarine.
L/B/D:
203.8 × 27.3 × 18.6 (62.1m × 8.3m × 5.7m). Tons:
1,242/1,837 disp. Hull:
steel. Comp.:
36. Mach.:
diesel/electric, 1 screw; 25/20 + kts. Built:
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Kittery, Me.; 1953.
The third naval vessel (and second submarine) so named, USS Albacore was built specifically as a test model for new concepts in submarine design. One of the Navy's primary aims was to develop a hull of optimal hydrodynamic efficiency that could also accommodate a nuclear propulsion plant, the design for which was just under way. Since nuclear power required no oxygen, as diesel engines did, and as there were ways of converting carbon dioxide to oxygen for the crew, this would mean that submarines could operate submerged for almost unlimited periods. One of the most obvious differences between Albacore and her predecessors is the rounded surfaces of her hull and the abandonment of deck guns and other fittings that impede hydrodynamic efficiency. This design concept later became universal. World War II submarines, by contrast, looked like narrow boats with pointed bows and flat decks. Albacore undertook a variety of cruises to test propeller, rudder, and dive plane configurations, sound reduction materials, sonar and radio systems, and emergency recovery devices. These resulted in faster, quieter, safer, and much more maneuverable submarines. Albacore was decommissioned in 1972 and is now on exhibit at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.
U.S. Navy, DANFS.
