Nominal dimensions do not reveal everything a graving dock can safely bear. Local ground conditions and water pressure can limit loading even when a ship fits within the published length, width, and depth. As warships became heavier and denser, facilities that once seemed adequate began to impose restrictions. Canopus, Duke of Edinburgh, and a dreadnought using Bermuda's floating dock all had to be lightened, which narrowed their repair options.
Notable Point · 7:48-10:12
A dock's capacity depends on more than dimensions
A ship can fit on paper yet still require lightening because water pressure, displacement, and local conditions limit a dock in practice.