Marine Insight: Am2 Anchor Chain

The AM2 anchor chain is a critical component in modern marine anchoring systems, playing a fundamental role in ensuring vessel safety across a wide range of maritime operations. Designed to meet rigorous international standards, the AM2 grade represents an enhanced level of strength, durability, and corrosion resistance compared to earlier grades such as AM1. This improvement is particularly vital in today’s shipping industry, where vessels are larger, operational environments are increasingly harsh, and regulatory compliance is non-negotiable. The AM2 anchor chain is engineered to withstand extreme tensile loads and dynamic stresses encountered during anchoring in deep waters, heavy weather, or offshore positioning, thereby minimizing the risk of chain failure and enhancing overall maritime safety.

Marine vessels, including bulk carriers, container ships, offshore support vessels, and oil rigs, rely on high-performance anchor chains to maintain station and prevent drifting. A failure in the anchoring system can lead to catastrophic consequences, including collisions, groundings, environmental damage, and loss of life. The AM2 grade, recognized under international classification society rules such as those from ABS, DNV, LR, and CCS, provides a higher minimum breaking load and improved material toughness, making it the preferred choice for newbuildings and retrofits in the global fleet. Its superior metallurgical composition ensures long service life even under continuous exposure to seawater and abrasive seabed conditions.

Sourcing AM2 anchor chains from Hangzhou Star Marine Technology Co., Ltd. offers significant cost advantages without compromising on quality. As a specialized manufacturer based in China, Star Marine leverages advanced production technology, efficient supply chain logistics, and economies of scale to deliver competitively priced anchoring solutions. The company adheres strictly to ISO 17081 and other relevant international standards, ensuring that every chain link undergoes rigorous testing for tensile strength, elongation, and impact resistance. Additionally, Star Marine maintains certifications from major classification societies, guaranteeing product compliance for global vessel operators.

The following table outlines key mechanical properties of AM2 anchor chain compared to standard grades:

By partnering with Hangzhou Star Marine Technology, shipbuilders and operators gain access to high-integrity AM2 anchor chains that meet the demands of modern maritime safety, delivered at a lower total cost of ownership. This combination of performance, compliance, and affordability makes Star Marine a trusted supplier in the global anchoring equipment market.

Technical Specs & Approval

Technical Specifications: AM2 Anchor Chain
Hangzhou Star Marine Technology Co. Ltd. manufactures AM2 anchor chains to stringent international maritime standards, ensuring optimal performance in demanding offshore environments. Our chains are engineered for reliability, longevity, and compliance with major classification societies including DNV, ABS, LR, and CCS. The AM2 series is available in two primary grades—U2 (Standard Grade) and U3 (High Tensile Grade)—tailored to vessel size, operational profile, and regulatory requirements. Material composition adheres to ISO 1704:2018 specifications, utilizing premium carbon steel with controlled manganese and silicon content to achieve precise mechanical properties. Surface treatment includes hot-dip galvanization (minimum 610 g/m² coating thickness) or epoxy coating options, providing superior corrosion resistance in saline conditions. Each chain undergoes 100% non-destructive testing (magnetic particle inspection) and mechanical verification per EN 13889 protocols. Traceability is maintained via laser-etched batch markings on every link, with full material test certificates (MTCs) supplied for export documentation.

Technical Parameters
The table below details critical specifications for Hangzhou Star’s AM2 anchor chain series. Dimensions and tolerances comply with ISO R1704, while mechanical properties align with ISO 1704:2018 Grade U2/U3 requirements.

Operational and Export Considerations
Holding power is intrinsically linked to seabed composition and chain scope ratio, though AM2 chains deliver consistent performance across clay, sand, and gravel substrates due to optimized link geometry and surface roughness (Ra ≤ 12.5 µm). U3 grade is recommended for vessels exceeding 10,000 DWT or operating in extreme weather conditions, offering 25% higher strength-to-weight ratio versus U2. For export shipments, chains are supplied in certified welded steel bundles (max 15m length) or on ISO-standard reels, with humidity-controlled packaging to prevent transit corrosion. All documentation includes ISO 1704-compliant test reports, CMTRs, and certificates of origin. Note that specific project requirements (e.g., USCG, Nippon Kaiji Kyokai) may necessitate additional testing; Hangzhou Star’s export team coordinates directly with classification societies to ensure seamless customs clearance. Vessel operators must verify chain diameter against anchor mass per IMO MSC/Circ.747 guidelines to prevent dynamic overloading. Contact our export department for project-specific validation and load-testing protocols.

Shipbuilding Solutions

Hangzhou Star Marine Technology Co., Ltd. delivers comprehensive anchoring solutions tailored for both new shipbuilding projects and vessel repair operations. As a trusted supplier in the maritime industry, we specialize in high-quality AM2 anchor chain systems engineered to meet international standards and the rigorous demands of marine environments. Our expertise ensures seamless integration of anchoring equipment from design through installation, supporting shipyards and repair facilities with reliable, efficient, and fully compliant products.

The AM2 anchor chain, manufactured in accordance with ISO 1704:2015 and recognized by major classification societies including CCS, ABS, DNV, LR, and BV, is designed for superior strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion. Constructed from heat-treated carbon steel, the AM2 grade offers a minimum breaking load that exceeds standard marine requirements, making it ideal for use in deep-water anchoring and heavy-duty offshore applications. Each chain is subject to strict quality control processes, including tensile testing, non-destructive examination, and traceability documentation, ensuring full compliance with project specifications and regulatory frameworks.

For new shipbuilding projects, Hangzhou Star Marine provides complete anchoring system packages, including AM2 chain cables, anchor windlasses, stockless anchors, shackles, and swivels. Our engineering team collaborates directly with ship designers and naval architects to ensure correct chain length, diameter, and stowage layout based on vessel type, displacement, and operational profile. Early involvement in the design phase allows for optimized material selection and installation planning, reducing lead times and minimizing on-site adjustments.

In vessel repair and retrofit scenarios, we offer rapid-response services supported by regional inventory hubs and a global logistics network. Our team conducts on-site assessments to evaluate chain wear, corrosion levels, and compliance with class renewal requirements. Replacement AM2 chains are supplied in certified lengths with full material test certificates, enabling swift re-certification by classification societies. We support dry-dock schedules with just-in-time delivery, minimizing downtime and improving project turnaround.

Our commitment to operational excellence is backed by technical documentation, installation supervision, and post-delivery support. Whether for bulk carriers, offshore support vessels, or specialized marine platforms, Hangzhou Star Marine ensures that every anchoring system performs to the highest safety and reliability standards.

The following table outlines key technical specifications for standard AM2 anchor chain offerings:

Hangzhou Star Marine Technology remains a strategic partner for shipbuilders and repair yards worldwide, delivering engineered anchoring solutions with precision, speed, and full regulatory compliance.

Packaging & Logistics

Packaging & Logistics for AM2 Anchor Chain Exports

Hangzhou Star Marine Technology Co., Ltd. implements rigorous packaging protocols for AM2 anchor chain exports to ensure product integrity, regulatory compliance, and seamless global delivery. Our methodology aligns with IMO guidelines and international trade standards, specifically addressing the high-mass, corrosion-sensitive nature of marine anchoring systems. All packaging solutions undergo structural validation to withstand dynamic loads during maritime transit, including vessel motion, stacking pressures, and environmental exposure.

Wooden export cases form the primary packaging solution for AM2 anchor chains, constructed exclusively from ISPM 15-certified lumber. These cases utilize kiln-dried softwood (typically Pinus sylvestris or equivalent) with a minimum thickness of 18 mm, treated via mandatory heat treatment (HT) at 56°C for 30 minutes to eliminate pest risks. Each case bears the internationally recognized ISPM 15 compliance stamp, including country code (CN), producer code, and HT certification mark. Internal bracing employs marine-grade steel strapping (minimum 32 mm width) and anti-slip rubber padding at contact points to prevent chain movement. Cases are sealed with corrosion-resistant steel bolts and feature integrated lifting lugs rated for 150% of gross weight. For chains exceeding 8 tons, we deploy modular steel-reinforced frames within wooden enclosures to distribute point loads.

Steel pallets serve as an alternative for standard-length AM2 chains (≤15 fathoms), fabricated from 6 mm thick galvanized steel with anti-corrosion coating (ISO 12944 C4 class). Pallets incorporate welded cross-beams and recessed chain beds to minimize lateral shift, with load capacities ranging from 5 to 10 metric tons. All steel components undergo salt-spray testing (ASTM B117) for 500+ hours to verify durability.

The following table details key packaging specifications:

Export shipments originate exclusively from China’s premier deep-water ports: Ningbo-Zhoushan (Port Code: CNNBO) and Shanghai (Port Code: CNSHA). Ningbo-Zhoushan port offers dedicated heavy-lift berths with 18.5 m draft and direct services to 600+ global ports, while Shanghai port provides integrated rail-sea connectivity via the Yangtze River Economic Belt. All containers undergo pre-shipment verification by China Classification Society (CCS) surveyors, with lashing certified to CSS Code Annex 13 standards. Documentation includes ISPM 15 phytosanitary certificates for wooden cases, material test reports (MTRs) per ISO 17025, and FAL Convention-compliant manifests.

Our logistics team coordinates real-time cargo tracking via IoT-enabled sensors monitoring humidity, shock, and tilt angles. Typical lead time from Hangzhou production facility to vessel loading is 72 hours, with pre-alert notifications issued 14 days prior to ETD. We strongly advise clients to confirm destination port’s handling capabilities for oversized loads exceeding 10 tons, as specialized equipment may be required during discharge. Hangzhou Star Marine Technology guarantees full compliance with all destination-country import regulations, minimizing customs clearance delays through proactive documentation management.

Contact Star Marine

For marine operators, shipbuilders, and offshore project managers seeking high-performance anchoring solutions, Hangzhou Star Marine Technology Co., Ltd. stands as a trusted global partner in marine equipment manufacturing and export. As a specialized provider in the anchoring equipment sector, we deliver engineered reliability and compliance with international maritime standards. Our flagship product, the AM2 anchor chain, is designed to meet the rigorous demands of modern maritime operations, offering superior tensile strength, corrosion resistance, and long-term durability in harsh marine environments.

The AM2 anchor chain is manufactured in strict accordance with international classification society standards, including CCS, ABS, DNV, LR, and BV, ensuring full traceability and quality assurance from raw material sourcing to final inspection. Constructed from high-grade alloy steel and subjected to precise heat treatment processes, the AM2 chain demonstrates exceptional performance under dynamic loading conditions, making it ideal for deep-water mooring, offshore platforms, commercial shipping, and heavy-duty marine construction projects.

To support global clients in selecting the optimal configuration and certification package for their operational requirements, we encourage direct engagement with our technical export team. At Hangzhou Star Marine Technology, we understand that anchoring systems are mission-critical components, and our engineering team is equipped to provide application-specific guidance, technical documentation, and compliance support throughout the procurement process.

For immediate assistance, product inquiries, or custom configuration requests regarding the AM2 anchor chain, please contact Kacher YE, Product Manager, who oversees international export operations and technical client relations. Kacher brings extensive experience in marine hardware logistics and project coordination, ensuring seamless communication, timely delivery, and full compliance with destination country regulations.

Below are key technical specifications of the standard AM2 anchor chain series:

All products are supplied with full material test certificates (MTC 3.1), dimensional reports, and third-party inspection documentation upon request. Packaging is tailored for maritime transport, with anti-corrosion protection and ISO-compliant bundling for containerized or bulk shipment.

We invite project engineers, procurement officers, and marine superintendents to reach out directly for technical data sheets, competitive quotations, or sample requests. Partner with Hangzhou Star Marine Technology to ensure your anchoring systems meet the highest global benchmarks.

Contact Kacher YE at [email protected] for expert support and dedicated export coordination.