Anchor Chains

Support, no matter in what shape, is of great importance in the life of a human being. Apart from human life, interlinking is important to keep things aligned and intact. This is where chains hold an important position in life. Unlike human emotions, these are tangible items.

Technically speaking, a chain is a serial assembly of well-connected pieces (links). The overall character of these chains is like a rope with compression, curve and liner shape. These chains are rigid with load and tension bearing abilities. Chains consist of multiple links and are of different types. Some of the most common uses of chains include lifting, pulling, securing, transfer of power and quick linking. Anchor chains are the most common type of chains for securing bigger objects like boats or cars. Today’s discussion helps to generate understanding about the anchor chain, its types, uses and importance.

A layman’s guide to understanding anchor chains

It is a common misconception that all chains are the same and the only difference is in size. This is an entirely false belief. To the fact, there is a variety of grades and types of anchor chains. Cruising sailors use these chains. Each type, style and size serve different specific functions. What follows is the basics of understanding the anchor chains and how to use them accurately. To generate understanding about the boat anchor chains, it knows types is crucial. This discussion will help you know what some possible options are and how they are helpful in different processing. This discussion will also give you an insight into the maintenance of your chains like a pro.

Common types of ship anchor chains

In most parts of the world, there are types of chains. The first one is Gr 30- Proof Coil, which is a general-purpose chain with normal commercial quality. Surely, it is made from low carbon steel and has an uneven pitch. While a BBB Anchor chain is a short link with normal commercial use and works well for gipsies and standard windlasses. Another known type is Gr 4- High test, which is like Gr 43 chain with comparatively smaller chain links with ISO standards. It bears twice the working load BBB bears. If you are looking for a chain with high carbon steel, Gr 43- High Test is best to enjoy strength and size. Meanwhile, Gr 70- transport is a common type with high strength-weight ratio than many other chains. 

Your anchor chains explained

The most famous varieties of windlass chains include high-test; triple B or grade 30; proof coil or grade 30 chains. Each of these has attributes as well as shortcomings. The BBB and Proof Coil are made of low-carbon steel which is heat-treated and comes from high-carbon-manganese alloy. The HT is famous for its strength in the link. Its working load ability is twice the BBB chain with the highest weight-to-work local ratio. Thus, it allows using a thinner link, which means more chains can be stored in the same locker. Another famous type is PC chains. These are non-calibrated for windlass use. These chains have almost the same working load as BBB and the same number of links per foot as the HT chains

Inspecting your chains regularly & carefully

All the quality chains from known brands have embossing of destinations explaining the grade. Without one, you can just keep guessing the capabilities of the chain. If you fail to use the chain for a specific windlass or function can lead to potential disaster. In most cases, the BBB is the most popular and powerful chain. The reason is that it is calibrated explicitly for activities like windlasses. Meanwhile, weight is another concerning attribute. Here you need to consider that with anchor rodes the weight becomes a critical factor. Likewise, every added pound will increase the catenary of the chain. In the end, another consideration should be the tensile strength of the chain.

Maintenance of your mooring (Marine) chain

An anchor chain is a considerable investment, and it demands a lot of time and attention. To keep your investment secure, it is important to take care of the chain. It is important to check your marine chains regularly and carefully. Make sure the links fit evenly into each recess in the wildcat. Also, make sure the wildcat is equipped with a stripper (a steel bar that divides the tensioned chain from the wildcat while being retrieved). If you are facing jams, probably the stripers are bent or absent. Hence, make sure the bitter end of the chain is connected to the vessel with the help of the spliced-on section. Hence, care instructions can help you keep your chain handy at times when sudden actions are required.