Here are some specific details about the construction of World War I tanks:
Armor:
- The armor of World War I tanks was typically made of rolled steel plates of varying thicknesses. The thickness of the armor varied depending on the location and intended purpose of the tank. For example, the front of the tank would often have thicker armor than the sides or rear to provide better protection against enemy fire.
Hull:
- The hull of a World War I tank formed the main body of the vehicle and consisted of steel plates riveted or welded together. The interior of the hull housed the engine, transmission, fuel tanks, crew compartments, and other vital components.
Turret:
- Many World War I tanks were equipped with rotating turrets that allowed the main gun to be traversed (moved horizontally) without having to move the entire tank. Turrets were typically made of steel plates bolted or riveted together.
Tracks:
- The tank’s tracks, which provided mobility and allowed the tank to traverse various terrains, were made of manganese steel which offered a combination of strength and resistance to wear and tear. Manganese steel also had the advantage of being self-hardening, becoming harder when subject to stress and friction during movement.
During World War I, tank design and materials constantly evolved in response to combat experiences and technology advancements. However, the use of steel and iron remained central to tank construction throughout the conflict and served as the foundation for tank design in subsequent wars.
