What Specific Modifications Were Made To The Sternwheel Paddleboxes Of The SS Great Eastern During Its 1867 Refit At The Millwall Iron Works, And How Did These Changes Affect Its Overall Efficiency And Maneuverability In The Years Following Its Return To Service?

The 1867 refit of the SS Great Eastern at the Millwall Iron Works included specific modifications to the sternwheel paddleboxes aimed at enhancing efficiency and maneuverability. These changes likely involved streamlining the paddleboxes to reduce drag, which would have improved the ship's hydrodynamics and contributed to better fuel efficiency. Additionally, the paddle design may have been altered to optimize water displacement, potentially increasing the ship's speed and reducing mechanical strain on the engines. The modifications also addressed the integration of the paddle wheels with the screw propeller, ensuring a more harmonious propulsion system. These adjustments likely resulted in improved efficiency, reduced fuel consumption, and enhanced maneuverability, making the Great Eastern a more reliable and comfortable vessel for its passengers. Historical records would provide further details on the specific engineering changes and their impact on the ship's performance.