Anchors are essential tools in order to connect vessels to the seabed and keep them still.  There is no universal anchoring system able to grip to any kind of seabed, that is why every anchor should be adapted depending on the type of work is being carried out.

The requirements for large vessels anchoring are not the same to yachts and from the parts of a ship but anchors have hardly changed in the history of sailing. When wind strengthens or current gets stronger, the security of the vessel and of the crew and passengers will depend on the anchor.

The combination of anchor and chain is perfect to do the job keeping the vessel in the anchorage. The anchor must offer resistance to horizontal movements but almost any resistance to vertical traction force. The main purpose of the chain is to change the pulls of the ships into horizontal pulls in the seabed through its weight.

Chains are series of connected links.  Those are elliptical shape and may not all have a brace or bracket in the centre of the link to increase the strength and to avoid deformation.

Among the most common cases of deterioration of the chains in anchoring systems, we should point out: corrosion, deformation or stress damage.  The use of stainless steel in those links guarantees adequate durability.

The links of a chain are made with stainless steel wire and diameter will depend on the final use in jewellery, construction, sailing; or use to hold, tie or pull.  Once being straightened, the stainless steel wire will be cut in the desired size and will be shaped by rolling.  These links will be connected with each other until the final length of the chain is reached.

After the process, the chain must be strengthened so each link is pressed and welded. To guarantee the correct mechanical properties the material is subjected to high temperature treatment.

Stainess steel wire manufactured by Inoxfil.