Marine Insight: Ac-14 Anchor

The AC-14 anchor is a critical component in modern marine anchoring systems, widely recognized for its superior holding power, reliability, and performance across diverse seabed conditions. As an industry-standard anchor design endorsed by classification societies such as ABS, DNV, LR, and CCS, the AC-14 plays a pivotal role in ensuring vessel safety during mooring, anchoring, and emergency stoppage operations. Its wide fluke design and large fluke area-to-weight ratio enable exceptional penetration and stability on muddy, sandy, and gravel seabeds, making it ideal for commercial vessels including container ships, bulk carriers, tankers, and offshore support vessels.

Marine operators globally prioritize the AC-14 anchor due to its non-hinged, balanced-fluke configuration, which minimizes the risk of tripping and enhances embedment efficiency. This design significantly improves the anchor’s ability to achieve full holding capacity quickly, reducing drift and increasing operational safety in adverse weather or tidal conditions. Furthermore, the AC-14’s compatibility with standard chain sizes and windlass systems ensures seamless integration into existing anchoring setups, minimizing retrofitting costs and downtime.

In the current maritime environment, where safety regulations are increasingly stringent and operational efficiency is paramount, sourcing high-quality anchoring equipment from reliable manufacturers is essential. Hangzhou Star Marine Technology Co., Ltd. has established itself as a trusted supplier of AC-14 anchors, meeting international standards while delivering exceptional value. Our anchors are manufactured using high-tensile steel (Grade A, B, or D) in compliance with IMO and classification society requirements, ensuring structural integrity and long service life under harsh marine conditions.

One of the key advantages of sourcing AC-14 anchors from Star Marine China is cost-effectiveness without compromising quality. Our vertically integrated production process, advanced foundry technology, and strategic location in Hangzhou enable us to offer competitive pricing, reduced lead times, and consistent product availability. Additionally, we maintain rigorous quality control protocols, including magnetic particle inspection (MPI), ultrasonic testing (UT), and mechanical property testing, to guarantee every anchor meets exacting performance standards.

The following table outlines the standard specifications for AC-14 anchors supplied by Hangzhou Star Marine Technology:

Anchor Weight (kg)	Stockless Shackle Diameter (mm)	Recommended Chain Size (mm)	Holding Power (kN)	Compliance Standard
500	60	28	280	ABS, DNV, LR, CCS
1,000	75	34	560	ABS, DNV, LR, CCS
2,500	100	44	1,400	ABS, DNV, LR, CCS
5,000	130	58	2,800	ABS, DNV, LR, CCS
10,000	170	74	5,600	ABS, DNV, LR, CCS

By combining international-grade engineering with cost-efficient manufacturing, Hangzhou Star Marine Technology provides shipbuilders, shipowners, and marine equipment suppliers with a strategic advantage in the global market. Our AC-14 anchors not only enhance maritime safety but also support operational sustainability through durability and performance consistency.

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Technical Specs & Approval

Technical Specifications: AC-14 Stockless Anchor
Hangzhou Star Marine Technology Co., Ltd. manufactures the AC-14 stockless anchor to stringent international maritime standards, ensuring optimal seabed penetration and holding reliability across diverse vessel types and operational conditions. This anchor design, compliant with ISO 1704:2019 and recognized by all major classification societies (ABS, DNV, LR, BV, CCS), features a balanced fluke angle and streamlined shank for rapid embedding in sandy, muddy, or clay seabeds. Critical performance hinges on precise material selection, dimensional accuracy, and surface integrity, directly influencing holding power-to-weight efficiency and service longevity. The following specifications detail our standard production parameters for U2 and U3 grade anchors, reflecting our commitment to export-grade quality control and traceability.

AC-14 Anchor Technical Parameters

Parameter	U2 Specification	U3 Specification
Nominal Weight Range	500 kg – 18,000 kg	500 kg – 18,000 kg
Material Grade	Cast Steel (ISO 4990:2015 Gr. U2)	High-Tensile Cast Steel (ISO 4990:2015 Gr. U3)
Yield Strength (Min)	240 MPa	340 MPa
Tensile Strength Range	440 – 640 MPa	590 – 780 MPa
Surface Treatment	Hot-Dip Galvanization (ISO 1461) or Epoxy Coating (250–300 µm DFT)	Hot-Dip Galvanization (ISO 1461) or Epoxy Coating (250–300 µm DFT)
Holding Power Ratio*	8:1 to 10:1 (in medium-firm seabed)	10:1 to 12:1 (in medium-firm seabed)

*Holding Power Ratio is vessel and seabed dependent; values represent typical performance in optimal conditions.

All AC-14 anchors undergo rigorous non-destructive testing (NDT), including 100% magnetic particle inspection (MPI) of critical zones per ISO 4987 and ultrasonic testing (UT) on shank sections exceeding 1,000 kg. Material traceability is maintained from certified steel ingots through final machining, with full mechanical test reports (tensile, impact, chemical composition) provided per order. Dimensional tolerances adhere strictly to ISO 1813:2020, ensuring compatibility with standard windlass systems and chain lockers.

Surface treatment selection is critical for corrosion resistance in marine environments. Hot-dip galvanization provides sacrificial zinc protection with a minimum coating mass of 610 g/m², suitable for global deployment. For vessels operating in highly corrosive waters or requiring extended maintenance cycles, our marine-grade epoxy coating system offers superior barrier protection, applied after abrasive blasting to Sa 2.5 standard (ISO 8501-1). Both treatments undergo adhesion and thickness verification per ASTM D4541 and ISO 2808.

Holding power performance is validated through full-scale model testing in certified facilities, simulating various seabed compositions. U3 grade anchors deliver up to 20% higher holding capacity than U2 equivalents due to enhanced material strength, allowing potential weight savings for newbuild vessels without compromising safety margins. However, actual in-service performance depends on seabed type, scope of rode, and vessel dynamics; we recommend consulting our engineering team for site-specific deployment analysis.

Hangzhou Star Marine Technology guarantees all AC-14 anchors meet or exceed the requirements of the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) Unified Requirements for Anchors (Rec. No. UR A2). Each unit is supplied with a Declaration of Conformity, material test certificates, NDT reports, and a serialized identification tag for lifetime traceability, ensuring seamless integration into global vessel procurement and regulatory compliance frameworks.

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Shipbuilding Solutions

Hangzhou Star Marine Technology Co., Ltd. delivers comprehensive anchoring solutions tailored for shipbuilding and repair projects worldwide. As a trusted supplier of high-integrity marine equipment, we specialize in the AC-14 anchor, a proven design recognized for its superior holding power and reliability across diverse seabed conditions. Our focus extends beyond product supply—we provide end-to-end support from technical consultation to global logistics, ensuring seamless integration into both new vessel construction and retrofit operations.

The AC-14 anchor, developed under IACS UR A2 guidelines, features a non-hinged, balanced design with large fluke area and optimized weight distribution. This configuration ensures excellent penetration and stability on muddy, sandy, or gravel seabeds, making it ideal for commercial vessels such as container ships, bulk carriers, tankers, and offshore support vessels. Star Marine offers the full range of AC-14 models, manufactured in accordance with ISO 1704:2020 and certified by major classification societies including CCS, ABS, DNV, LR, and NK. Each anchor undergoes rigorous mechanical testing and non-destructive examination to guarantee structural integrity and long-term performance.

In shipbuilding projects, our engineering team collaborates directly with shipyards to align anchor selection with vessel specifications, including anchor handling systems, hawse design, and chain compatibility. For repair and retrofit scenarios, we provide rapid assessment services and replacement solutions that minimize downtime. With stock availability at key Chinese ports and a responsive technical support network, Star Marine ensures fast delivery and just-in-time supply—critical factors in modern shipyard scheduling.

Our commitment to quality is matched by our service speed. From inquiry to installation, we maintain a turnaround response time of under 24 hours for technical queries and offer expedited manufacturing cycles for urgent repair cases. Additionally, we supply complete anchoring packages, including studless or stud-linked chain, connecting shackles, and windlass compatibility assessments, ensuring system-level coherence and regulatory compliance.

Below is an overview of standard AC-14 anchor specifications available through Hangzhou Star Marine Technology:

Anchor Weight (kg)	Nominal Chain Size (mm)	Holding Power (kN)	Classification Certifications	Delivery Time (days)
500	27	280	CCS, ABS, DNV, LR, NK	15
1,000	32	560	CCS, ABS, DNV, LR, NK	15
2,500	42	1,400	CCS, ABS, DNV, LR, NK	20
5,000	54	2,800	CCS, ABS, DNV, LR, NK	25
10,000	66	5,600	CCS, ABS, DNV, LR, NK	30

Star Marine stands as a strategic partner in marine infrastructure development, combining technical precision with operational agility. Whether supporting a newbuild program or an emergency repair, we ensure the AC-14 anchoring system performs to the highest maritime standards—on time, every time.

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Packaging & Logistics

Packaging & Logistics for AC-14 Anchors: Hangzhou Star Marine Technology

Hangzhou Star Marine Technology implements rigorously engineered packaging solutions for AC-14 anchors, ensuring global shipment integrity and compliance with stringent international maritime regulations. Our methodology prioritizes protection against mechanical stress, environmental exposure, and corrosion throughout the complex logistics chain, directly supporting vessel safety and operational readiness upon delivery. All wooden packaging components strictly adhere to International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15 (ISPM 15). This mandatory certification involves heat treatment of solid wood to a minimum core temperature of 56°C for 30 minutes, eliminating pest risks, and is permanently marked with the official IPPC logo, country code, producer number, and HT designation. This compliance is non-negotiable for entry into virtually all global markets and prevents costly port rejections or fumigation delays.

AC-14 anchors are systematically secured within custom-fabricated, marine-grade plywood export cases. These cases feature internal bracing and cushioning using closed-cell polyethylene foam, specifically contoured to immobilize the anchor flukes, shank, and crown, preventing movement-induced damage during transit. Critical contact points are isolated with non-acidic VCI (Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor) paper to mitigate galvanic corrosion risks between dissimilar metals. For heavier AC-14 models or multi-unit shipments, robust galvanized steel pallets form the foundational base. Constructed from high-tensile steel channels and plates, these pallets undergo dynamic load testing to withstand stacking forces in containerized shipping and port handling. Anchor securing utilizes certified marine-grade shackles and tensioned lashing straps, meeting ISO 15848-1 leakage standards for securement integrity. The combined wooden case and steel pallet system provides optimal shock absorption while maintaining structural stability during crane lifts and container stowage.

All export shipments originate efficiently from China’s premier deep-water ports, Ningbo-Zhoushan and Shanghai. Hangzhou Star leverages established partnerships with major international carriers and integrated logistics providers at these hubs. Our Ningbo and Shanghai facilities maintain dedicated bonded warehouse space, enabling streamlined customs clearance under China’s export supervision regime. Standard containerization utilizes 20-foot or 40-foot High Cube dry containers, optimized for AC-14 anchor dimensions and weight. Pre-shipment documentation, including ISPM 15 certificates, detailed packing lists, and material test reports traceable to the anchor’s heat number, is meticulously prepared to ensure rapid port processing. We guarantee container stuffing under direct supervision to verify correct packaging integrity and securement before sealing. This integrated approach minimizes port dwell time, typically achieving vessel loading within 48 hours of container arrival at the terminal, and ensures the AC-14 anchor arrives at the destination port in flawless, ready-for-installation condition, fully compliant with IACS Unified Requirements for anchoring equipment.

The following table details the standard packaging specifications applied to AC-14 anchor exports:

Parameter	Specification	Compliance Standard
Wooden Case Material	ISPM 15 Certified Heat Treated Marine Plywood	ISPM 15, IPPC Marking
Internal Cushioning	50mm Closed-Cell Polyethylene Foam	ASTM D1667
Corrosion Protection	VCI Paper (Non-Acidic) at Contact Points	MIL-PRF-81309 Type IV
Steel Pallet Material	Q235B Galvanized Steel (Min. 6mm Plate)	ISO 8217, GB/T 3091
Pallet Load Capacity	15,000 kg Dynamic / 30,000 kg Static	ISO 8611-1
Securement Hardware	Grade 80 Alloy Steel Shackles & Lashing Straps	ISO 1834, EN 12195-1
Case Marking	Anchor Type, Serial No., Weight, Center of Gravity, Handle With Care	IMO IMDG Code Section 5.2

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Contact Star Marine

For maritime professionals and procurement specialists seeking reliable, high-performance anchoring solutions, Hangzhou Star Marine Technology Co., Ltd. stands as a trusted partner in the global marine equipment supply chain. Our flagship AC-14 anchor is engineered to meet the rigorous demands of modern shipping, offshore operations, and marine construction projects. Designed in strict compliance with international classification society standards—including ABS, DNV, LR, CCS, and NK—the AC-14 anchor delivers superior holding power, excellent stability on various seabed types, and enhanced resistance to dragging, making it an ideal choice for vessels ranging from bulk carriers to offshore support vessels.

At Hangzhou Star Marine Technology, we combine advanced metallurgical processes, precision manufacturing, and comprehensive quality assurance to deliver anchoring systems that ensure safety, durability, and operational efficiency. Our AC-14 anchors are manufactured using high-tensile steel (Grade A, B, or D per ASTM A148 or equivalent), undergo strict mechanical testing, and are certified with full material traceability and third-party inspection reports upon request. Whether you are outfitting a newbuild vessel or replacing existing ground tackle, our engineering team supports customized configurations, including shank design, weight specifications, and certification packages tailored to your vessel’s requirements.

To ensure seamless integration into your vessel’s anchoring system, we also offer complementary products such as anchor chains, shackles, windlasses, and hawse pipes, all manufactured to the same exacting standards. Our logistics network supports timely delivery to major ports worldwide, with containerized or bulk shipment options and documentation prepared in accordance with international trade terms (Incoterms 2020).

For detailed technical specifications, pricing, or project consultation, we invite you to contact our dedicated Product Manager, Kacher YE, who brings over a decade of experience in marine anchoring systems and export operations. Mr. Ye is available to assist with product selection, technical data submission, and coordination of factory inspections or third-party surveys.

Below are key technical parameters for the standard AC-14 anchor series:

Anchor Weight (kg)	Stockless Shank (mm)	Fluke Area (m²)	Holding Power (kN)	Certification Options
500	65	0.85	420	ABS, DNV, LR, CCS, NK
1,000	85	1.62	780	ABS, DNV, LR, CCS, NK
2,500	120	3.95	1,850	ABS, DNV, LR, CCS, NK (with IACS E0)
5,000	170	7.80	3,600	Full IACS package available
10,000	240	15.2	6,900	Custom certification suites

To initiate a technical discussion or request a formal quotation, please reach out directly to Kacher YE via email at [email protected]. We respond to all inquiries within 4 business hours and provide multilingual support for English, Spanish, and Arabic-speaking clients. Hangzhou Star Marine Technology—your global partner in marine safety and reliability.

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