There were 32 Davits that launched the Titanic's lifeboats when it sank. This is one of crane arm and mechanisms manufactured by the Welin Company. Regulations in 1912 required lifeboats based on ship size not based on number of passengers. Regulations were due to be updated and the shipping industry knew this. Originally, it was planned to give the Titanic 44 lifeboats, which would be enough for everyone on board. But given the cost, and the fact it was not legally required, the executives at the White Star Line decided to eliminate 24 of the lifeboats. As you might have guessed, none admitted after the Titanic sank in making that decision. The Davits were needed to load large numbers of boats into the water. The arm is designed to reach far over the deck, pick up rows of lifeboats and hoist them into the water. #Titanic #Exhibit