This article has multiple issues. Please help improve it or discuss these issues on the talk page. (Learn how and when to remove these messages)
|
Handy billy — also known as Handy-billie —is an emergency portable pump that for decades was commonly placed aboard most U.S. Navy ships from World War I on, as well as later use on civilian craft.
Purpose of the pump
editThe handy billy, formally designated "P50", because it pumped 50 gallons per minute, was gasoline-powered and could be used, during flooding conditions, in conjunction with other pumps on the ship. However, it was especially valuable when the ship lost electrical power and normal pumping ability was lost.
On smaller ships, it was a critical piece of equipment.
The pump gained its name because it was very “handy” and dependable. It was especially handy because it could be easily transported from place to place by two strong crew members, one at each end, as it weighed 160 pounds during World War II.
Versatility
editThe handy billy could be used for fire-fighting and/or pumping water from flooded spaces aboard ship.
Example of use
editSee USS Auk (AM-38)
See also
editReferences
edit- Morison, Samuel Eliot (1963). "page 529". The Two-Ocean War. New York: Galahad Books. ISBN 1-57866-003-3.