How to Choose Your Next Anchor Chain

When you're gearing up for your next yachting journey, it's crucial to consider the right anchor chain. Here are five essential questions to guide your choice:

Visit SINODA for more details.

1. Should I opt for Hot Dip Galvanised or Stainless Steel?
2. What is the appropriate size of chain I need?
3. Which chain calibration will be optimal?
4. How long should my chain be?
5. Which manufacturer should I trust for my chain?

Understanding Hot Dip Galvanised Anchor Chains

Hot Dip Galvanising has been a standard for over five decades, especially popular among motor and sailing yachts due to its cost-effectiveness compared to stainless steel.

It's vital to grasp that Hot Dip Galvanising is not a mere surface treatment—it involves dipping the chain into molten zinc, leading to a chemical reaction that infuses zinc into the steel. Therefore, natural wear from anchoring affects it gradually.

Nonetheless, all galvanised chains will eventually show rust stains, especially in marine environments where oxidation is prevalent. If you desire a pristine foredeck and chain locker, high-grade stainless steel might be your best choice.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Stainless Anchor Chains

Stainless Steel Calibrated Anchor Chains range from Grade 30, which typically costs about three times more than Galvanised Grade 40.

While stainless steel can stain despite its name, this can be easily cleaned with specialized agents that require no polishing. Brands like Ketten Waelder from Germany manufacture high-quality Stainless Grade 60 and Grade 60+ A318N Cromox chains, providing exceptional strength and durability.

Additionally, electro-polishing can improve resistance to marine degradation, making it ideal for warmer waters. Advocates for stainless steel also highlight its reduced carbon footprint compared to galvanised options, as it doesn’t leave harmful zinc residues in oceans.

Combining Galvanised and Stainless Chains

It's not uncommon to see both steel types in an anchoring system; however, it's important to note that doing so can cause galvanic reactions, resulting in accelerated corrosion of the galvanised components, particularly if the stainless part is significantly heavier.

To maintain safety, it's advisable to keep just one type of steel in your system.

Determining the Right Size for Your Anchor Chain

The strength of the anchor chain is linked to the steel grade. You can compare grades between galvanised and stainless steel: while galvanised chains are available in Grades 30, 40, and 70, stainless steel options include G3, G4, G6, and G6+. For instance, G3 correlates to Grade 30.

The Weakest Link Principle

While incidents of anchor chains failing while a yacht is at anchor are rare, it's more common for yachts to drift due to weak links in the anchoring system. It's crucial to ensure that every splice, shackle, or connector matches or exceeds the strength of the chain.

Criteria for Choosing the Right Size Anchor Chain

When selecting chain size, consider your yacht's length, displacement, and the grade of chain. Cruising expectations and reliance on the anchor also play a significant role. Treat your anchoring system as your main insurance policy for safe voyages.

Resources for Anchor Chain Sizes

There are numerous online size charts and guidelines available for determining the appropriate anchor chain size for your yacht. Chains in Europe are typically measured in metric increments, such as 6mm, 7mm, 8mm, and so forth.

Windlass Compatibility

The specifications of your windlass may dictate the choices available to you. This includes the retrieval power and compatibility with various chain sizes.

Choosing the Correct Calibration

Once you've determined your desired chain size, selecting the right calibration becomes essential. The calibration should match the windlass gypsy unless you're planning a gypsy upgrade.

Estimating Required Chain Length

Your yacht's anchor chain length will depend on the expected anchoring depth and anticipated harsh conditions. Remember, you’ll need to account for the depth limitations imposed by your chain locker as well.

Combination Chains

Anchor rodes come in all-chain forms or mixed with rope, which can provide shock absorption during severe conditions.

Choosing a Chain Manufacturer

Investing in a recognized brand guarantees quality. It's wise to purchase from trusted retailers who specialize in anchoring equipment.

Manufacturing Locations

Major European production includes France, Germany, and Italy, while China serves as an alternative source. However, choose brands that guarantee post-purchase support.

Corrosion Resistance Factors

For galvanised chains, the quality of galvanizing is vital to deter rust. For stainless steel chains, opting for higher grades can significantly affect performance in marine environments.

Summary Checklist: 10 Key Steps for Anchor Chain Purchase

1. Assess windlass for retrieval capacity.
2. Inspect windlass gypsy for size and compatibility.
3. Consider upgrading the gypsy.
4. Decide on country of origin preferences.
5. Choose between Galvanised or Stainless Steel.
6. Determine necessary size and strength grade.
7. Ensure correct calibration.
8. Select a reputable manufacturer.
9. Buy from a reliable dealer.
10. Request a specific test certificate.

About the Author

Jimmy Green Marine, run by brothers Alistair and Mike Green, has transitioned from mail order to global online trading over four decades. Alistair, a seasoned sailor, is committed to offering high-quality products and services.

If you're looking for reliable marine supply, inquire about their Table Top Chain expertise and contact them today for professional consultation!

For additional information on their offerings, visit JimmyGreen.com.

Related Links

For updates and international cruising information, subscribe to the free monthly newsletter at https://www.noonsite.com/newsletter/.