What Is the Anchor Chain of a Ship and Why Does It Matter?
2025-11-04
When customers visit our factory, one of the most common questions they ask me is, “What exactly is an anchor chain and why is it so important for ships?” Working in the marine equipment industry for years, I’ve seen how crucial a reliable Anchor Chain can be for vessel safety and stability. At Zhongnan Anchor Chain, we specialize in designing and manufacturing high-quality marine anchor chains that meet international standards and serve various ship types—from fishing boats to large cargo vessels.
How Does an Anchor Chain Work on a Ship?
An anchor chain is a heavy steel chain connecting the anchor to the vessel. Its main role is to absorb the force between the ship and the anchor, ensuring the vessel remains stable even in strong winds or waves. The chain’s weight helps maintain a proper anchoring angle, keeping the anchor firmly embedded in the seabed.
When we design our chains at Zhongnan Anchor Chain, we always focus on three critical factors:
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Strength – to resist tension in harsh marine conditions
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Durability – to withstand corrosion and seawater exposure
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Flexibility – to perform well in varying seabed terrains
What Are the Main Types of Anchor Chains We Manufacture?
Depending on ship size and function, we produce different types of anchor chains, all customizable to customer requirements. Here’s a quick overview:
| Type of Anchor Chain | Description | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|
| Stud Link Chain | Features a solid bar in the middle of each link for higher strength | Cargo ships, oil tankers, navy vessels |
| Studless Chain | Lighter design, easy to handle, suitable for smaller vessels | Fishing boats, yachts, offshore platforms |
| High Tensile Chain | Made from heat-treated alloy steel for superior load capacity | Heavy-duty marine operations |
| Galvanized Chain | Coated with zinc for enhanced corrosion resistance | Coastal and freshwater use |
Each chain we produce undergoes strict quality inspection and mechanical testing to ensure maximum performance and reliability in demanding sea environments.
What Are the Standard Parameters of Zhongnan Anchor Chains?
To meet the needs of different marine projects, Zhongnan Anchor Chain offers a wide range of specifications. Below is a general reference table of our anchor chain parameters:
| Parameter | Range / Specification |
|---|---|
| Chain Diameter | 12.5mm – 152mm |
| Grade | U2, U3 (Heat-treated alloy steel) |
| Material | Marine-grade steel (ISO certified) |
| Surface Treatment | Black bitumen paint, hot-dip galvanized, or customized coating |
| Proof Load | 30 – 600 kN |
| Breaking Load | 70 – 1,500 kN |
| Certification | ABS, LR, BV, DNV, CCS, NK |
We can also produce non-standard sizes and finishes based on specific ship classifications or customer drawings.
How to Choose the Right Anchor Chain for Your Vessel?
Selecting the right anchor chain depends on several key factors:
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Vessel size and type – Larger ships require higher-grade chains.
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Operating environment – Saltwater conditions need stronger anti-corrosion coatings.
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Anchoring depth – The longer the depth, the more load capacity you’ll need.
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Classification requirements – Always check with classification societies for compliance.
If you’re unsure which chain suits your vessel best, our engineering team can provide customized guidance and technical drawings to help you make the right decision.
Why Do Customers Choose Zhongnan Anchor Chain?
From my experience working at Zhongnan Anchor Chain, customers trust us because we don’t just sell products—we provide solutions. Our advantages include:
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Over 30 years of production experience
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Full in-house testing and heat-treatment equipment
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Global certifications (ABS, BV, DNV, CCS)
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Fast delivery and worldwide shipping
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Custom OEM & ODM service
Every chain we deliver represents our commitment to safety, quality, and long-term reliability at sea.
How Can You Get a Quote or Learn More?
If you’re looking for a trusted Anchor Chain manufacturer who truly understands your needs, we’d love to hear from you. Our team at Zhongnan Anchor Chain is ready to support your project with professional advice and reliable products.
📩 Contact us today to request a quote, discuss custom specifications, or schedule a factory visit. Let’s ensure your vessels anchor safely—no matter where the sea takes you.