Raft of Casks

This raft may be constructed by forming a frame of timber to contain the casks. The frame consists of four longitudinal pieces halved into four transoms. The long pieces must be at least 20 feet long, and their distance apart be a little le than the head diameter of the casks. The under edges are beveled so as to give them a good bearing on the casks. In default of square timber, poles may be used in the construction of the frame. The string-pieces and transoms may be spiked or lashed at their points of junction. The four exterior casks in the raft should be lashed to the frame, otherwise they may be carried off by the current when the raft lurches. For other kinds of rafts, see Pontons .