[ARC5] Navy Guys- Air Drier/Heater Question

[J. Forster]

Hi,

I have been asked a question about an odd device in the radio rooms of
some WW II warships.

There is a cylindrical canister, enclosed in a metal covered, insulated
jacket, about 8" OD and 20" tall with 1/2" pipe fittings top and bottom.
Inside there is a piece of SS pipe with welded flanges top an bottom.
There are at least two Hotwatt heaters strapped to the cylinder OD with
worm screw clamps, and a thermostat. There is also a dial thermometer,
readable from outside the insulating jacket.

Is it an air heater or drier? What's it for?

Thanks,

-John

=======================