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Marine Insight: Am-2 Anchor Chain

Marine Industry Demand for AM-2 Anchor Chain: Ensuring Safety and Operational Reliability
Critical Role in Vessel Safety and Operational Integrity
AM-2 anchor chain is a critical component in marine anchoring systems, engineered to withstand extreme dynamic loads during vessel operations. Its fine-grained killed steel structure (per ISO 693) ensures superior toughness and fatigue resistance compared to standard grades, directly contributing to operational safety in adverse sea conditions. Compliance with Class Society standards (e.g., BV, ABS) guarantees rigorous tensile testing and dimensional accuracy, which is non-negotiable for preventing anchor system failures during critical situations such as storms or emergency maneuvers. For vessels ranging from 1,000 to 5,000 tons displacement, AM2-grade chains provide optimal balance between strength, weight, and cost-efficiency, making them the industry standard for commercial and offshore support vessels.
Technical Specifications of AM-2 Anchor Chain
| Parameter | Specification | Standard Compliance |
|---|---|---|
| Grade | AM2 (U2/U3) | ISO 1704, Class Society |
| Material | Killed Steel, Fine-Grained | ASTM A20, ISO 693 |
| Diameter Range | 12.5mm – 240mm | Customizable per client |
| Surface Treatment | Galvanized (ASTM A153), Black Paint (Epoxy/Alkyd) | ISO 12944, ASTM A153 |
| Tensile Strength | ≥500 MPa (minimum) | Class Society Tensile Test Certificate |
| Weight per Meter | 1.8 kg/m (12.5mm) to 1,100 kg/m (240mm) | ISO 1704 |
| Certifications | BV, ABS, LR, DNV, Class Society | International Maritime Standards |
Market Trends: New Builds and Replacement Demand
The global marine industry is experiencing dual demand drivers for AM-2 anchor chains. New-build projects, particularly in the offshore wind and LNG carrier sectors, require chains with precise engineering for dynamic positioning systems. Simultaneously, the aging global fleet (over 30% of vessels >15 years old) drives a robust replacement market, with shipyards prioritizing certified suppliers for maintenance cycles. China’s shipbuilding sector, growing at 8% CAGR, further amplifies demand for high-quality, cost-effective anchor chains. Notably, 65% of ship-repair orders in 2023 required AM2-grade chains for emergency repairs, underscoring the need for reliable, quick-delivery suppliers.
Why Source AM-2 Anchor Chain from Hangzhou Star Marine Technology?
As a certified marine equipment manufacturer, Hangzhou Star Marine Technology Co., Ltd. delivers end-to-end solutions for both new-build and ship-repair markets:
New-Build Support: Full compliance with Class Society requirements (BV, ABS, etc.), custom engineering for vessel-specific requirements, and integrated quality control from raw material to final inspection.
Ship-Repair Agility: In-stock AM2 chains (including environmentally black-painted options) for immediate dispatch, reducing downtime for repair yards. Our 48-hour lead time for standard sizes ensures rapid response to urgent maintenance needs.
Cost Efficiency: Leveraging China’s advanced manufacturing ecosystem, we offer 15–20% lower landed costs than European suppliers while maintaining ISO 9001-certified quality. Our vertically integrated production minimizes supply chain risks and ensures consistent delivery schedules.
Global Compliance: All products undergo third-party inspections (BV, SGS) and include Class Society Tensile Test Certificates, eliminating customs delays and ensuring seamless import compliance worldwide.
Proven Expertise: With 15+ years of experience supplying anchor chains to 50+ countries, we specialize in meeting the stringent demands of shipyards and shipowners. Our technical team provides end-to-end support—from specification validation to post-delivery installation guidance—ensuring operational reliability across all marine environments.
Technical Specs & Class Approval
Technical Specifications & Class Approval
Grade Specifications
AM2 (U2) grade anchor chain is manufactured from completely killed and fine-grained steel, meeting stringent ISO 1704 and Class Society standards. Unlike AM1 grade (basic killed steel), AM2/U2 offers superior tensile strength, fatigue resistance, and impact toughness, making it ideal for medium to large commercial vessels requiring reliable anchoring performance.
Weight & Dimensions
| Parameter | Standard Specification | Custom Options |
|---|---|---|
| Diameter Range | 12.5mm – 240mm (per ISO 1704) | Up to 300mm (tailored to vessel requirements) |
| Weight per Meter | 1.2 kg/m (12.5mm) to 185 kg/m (240mm) | Precision-calculated for specific displacement needs |
| Breaking Load | 50 kN (12.5mm) to 1,250 kN (240mm) | Enhanced tensile strength options available |
| Surface Treatment | Hot-dip galvanized (Zn ≥50μm) or Black Painted | Epoxy-coated, duplex coatings, or custom finishes |
| Class Certifications | CCS, DNV, BV, LR, ABS | Additional approvals (KR, RINA, NK) upon request |
Holding Power Analysis
AM2 grade chains provide optimal catenary effect for vessels up to 50,000 DWT. The chain’s weight per meter directly influences seabed engagement and holding capacity. For example:
A 50mm AM2 chain (18.5 kg/m) delivers 20% higher holding power than AM1 equivalents at equivalent diameters.
Chain length and weight distribution are critical for dynamic load management in rough seas.
Our engineering team provides vessel-specific holding power calculations to ensure compliance with class society requirements and operational safety margins.
Class Society Approvals & Compliance
Every batch of AM2 anchor chain undergoes rigorous testing per ISO 1704 and Class Society protocols. Certificates include:
Tensile strength verification (minimum 370 MPa for U2 grade)
Chemical composition analysis (C ≤0.25%, Si ≤0.35%, Mn ≤1.0%)
Impact toughness tests (Charpy V-notch ≥27J at -20°C)
Dimensional accuracy checks (per ISO 1704 tolerances)
All documentation is traceable and compliant with SOLAS Chapter II-1 and MARPOL Annex I regulations. Certifications from BV, DNV, CCS, LR, and ABS are standard, with additional approvals available for global port state control compliance.
Why Choose Hangzhou Star Marine Technology Co., Ltd.?
As a leading marine equipment supplier, we specialize in providing certified AM2 anchor chains for both new shipbuilding and ship-repair projects. Our capabilities include:
Rapid Production: 15-day lead time for standard orders; 30 days for custom specifications.
Global Compliance: Certifications accepted by all major classification societies worldwide.
Technical Support: Dedicated marine engineers for installation guidance and system integration.
Quality Assurance: Full traceability from raw material to final product with ISO 9001 certification.
For new builds, our chains meet stringent class society requirements for initial outfitting. For ship-repair yards, we offer same-day dispatch for critical replacement parts and compatibility testing with existing systems.
Contact us today for engineering support, batch-specific certificates, or urgent delivery solutions.
Hangzhou Star Marine Technology Co., Ltd. – Precision Anchoring Solutions for the Global Maritime Industry.
Shipbuilding & Repair Solutions

Shipbuilding & Repair Solutions: Comprehensive Anchor Chain Expertise from Hangzhou Star Marine Technology
Introduction: Beyond Product Supply – Your Trusted Marine Solutions Partner
Hangzhou Star Marine Technology Co., Ltd. delivers end-to-end anchoring solutions for shipbuilding and repair projects worldwide. As a certified marine equipment provider, we don’t just supply anchor chains—we engineer complete systems that meet Class Society standards and operational demands. Our AM2-grade anchor chains are rigorously tested, certified, and optimized for seamless integration with anchors, windlasses, and mooring systems. From newbuilds to emergency repairs, we provide technical precision, supply chain reliability, and 24/7 engineering support to ensure mission-critical performance.
Technical Specifications: AM2 Anchor Chain Performance Metrics
Key Parameters & Compliance
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Grade | AM2 (U2) per ISO 1704, DNV, ABS, BV, CCS |
| Chain Type | Stud Link (Standard for anchor applications) |
| Material | Killed steel, fine-grained structure (fully deoxidized for superior toughness) |
| Surface Treatment | Hot-dip galvanized (HDG) or environmentally compliant black paint (ISO 12944-5) |
| Diameter Range | 12.5mm – 240mm |
| Certifications | Class Society Tensile Test Certificates (BV, ABS, DNV, LR), Material Test Reports (MTRs) |
AM2 Anchor Chain Technical Specifications
| Diameter (mm) | Weight per Meter (kg/m) | Breaking Load (kN) | Surface Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12.5 | 1.35 | 150 | HDG, Black Paint |
| 16 | 2.15 | 240 | HDG, Black Paint |
| 20 | 3.40 | 375 | HDG, Black Paint |
| 24 | 4.95 | 540 | HDG, Black Paint |
| 30 | 7.70 | 820 | HDG, Black Paint |
| 40 | 13.0 | 1,350 | HDG, Black Paint |
| 50 | 20.5 | 2,100 | HDG, Black Paint |
| 60 | 29.5 | 3,000 | HDG, Black Paint |
| 80 | 52.0 | 5,200 | HDG, Black Paint |
| 100 | 81.0 | 8,100 | HDG, Black Paint |
| 120 | 116.0 | 11,600 | HDG, Black Paint |
| 150 | 180.0 | 18,000 | HDG, Black Paint |
| 200 | 320.0 | 32,000 | HDG, Black Paint |
| 240 | 460.0 | 46,000 | HDG, Black Paint |
Note: Breaking load values calculated per ISO 1704 standards. Surface treatments comply with ISO 12944-5 for corrosion resistance in marine environments.
Technical Support & Engineering Consultation
Vessel-Specific Chain Selection Guidance
Displacement-Based Recommendations:
1,000–5,000 DWT vessels: AM2 (U2) grade chains for standard operational profiles.
10,000–100,000 DWT vessels: AM2/AM3 hybrid solutions for high-stress environments.
100,000 DWT vessels: AM3-grade chains with enhanced tensile properties (consult our engineering team for custom configurations).
Environmental Adaptation:
Saltwater exposure: HDG coating for 10+ years of corrosion resistance.
Harsh seabed conditions (rocky/sandy): Black paint for abrasion resistance without compromising tensile integrity.
Windlass Compatibility:
Precise gypsy sizing calculations to prevent chain slippage, wear, or windlass damage.
Torque and load analysis for windlass matching (e.g., 30°–45° chain angle optimization).
Compliance & Certification Assurance
All products undergo tensile testing per Class Society standards (BV, ABS, DNV, LR) with traceable MTRs.
Full documentation provided:
Material composition reports (C, Mn, Si, P, S content).
Heat treatment certificates (quenching/tempering parameters).
ISO 9001:2015 quality control records.
Integrated Outfitting Solutions
Anchor-Windlass-Chain System Optimization
| Component | Compatibility Protocol |
|---|---|
| Anchor Type | Bruce, Delta, or Stockless anchors paired with AM2 chains for optimal holding power. |
| Windlass | Gypsy diameter matched to chain diameter (±0.5mm tolerance); torque capacity verified against chain breaking load. |
| Accessories | Shackles (ASTM A490), swivels, and shackles rated for AM2 grade (e.g., 1.5× chain breaking load). |
Example: For a 20,000 DWT vessel, we recommend a 24mm AM2 chain with a 10-ton Bruce anchor and a windlass rated for 1,500 kN. Our engineers provide a full system validation report to eliminate mismatch risks.
Emergency Repair Support
24/7 Urgent Response Protocol
Same-Day Shipping:
Common sizes (12.5mm–60mm) shipped within 24 hours from global warehouses in Singapore, Rotterdam, and Shanghai.
Technical Hotline:
Dedicated marine engineers available 24/7 for on-site troubleshooting (e.g., chain wear analysis, windlass adjustment).
Rapid Deployment:
Pre-qualified stock for critical repairs (e.g., 30mm AM2 chains for bulk carriers, 40mm for tankers).
Expedited customs clearance and logistics coordination for port-side installations.
Why Star Marine?
End-to-End Solution Provider: From design consultation to post-installation support, we manage the entire anchor chain lifecycle.
Zero Compromise on Quality: 100% compliance with ISO, Class Society, and client-specific standards.
Proven Reliability: 15+ years of service for shipyards, owners, and repair facilities across 40+ countries.
Technical Agility: Custom solutions for unique operational challenges (e.g., Arctic ice conditions, tropical corrosion).
Contact Us:
📞 +86 571 8888 9999 | ✉️ [email protected] | 🌐 www.star-marine.com
Your vessel’s safety starts with the right anchor chain solution—engineered, certified, and delivered on time.
Packaging & Logistics

Packaging & Global Logistics
As a leading marine equipment solution provider for new shipbuilding and ship-repair projects, Hangzhou Star Marine Technology ensures seamless global delivery of AM-2 anchor chains through ISO-compliant packaging, robust logistics networks, and rigorous compliance with international shipping standards. Our end-to-end framework guarantees on-time delivery while meeting the stringent demands of critical maritime operations worldwide.
ISPM 15 Certified Wooden Case Packaging
All AM-2 anchor chain shipments are packaged in custom-engineered wooden cases compliant with ISPM 15 phytosanitary regulations. Each case is constructed from kiln-dried timber (≤18% moisture content), treated per IPPC standards (heat treatment or methyl bromide fumigation), and stamped with the official ISPM 15 mark. Internal protection includes:
Galvanized chains: VCI (Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor) paper wraps to prevent oxidation during transit.
Black-painted variants: Moisture-absorbing desiccants and anti-condensation film.
Reinforced corners with steel strapping to withstand ocean freight stresses.
Note: All cases undergo pre-shipment inspection for structural integrity and compliance with IMO/ISO 1496-3 standards.
Heavy-Duty Steel Pallet Support for Oversized Loads
For chains exceeding 120mm diameter (weight >100 kg/m), we deploy reinforced steel pallets engineered for extreme loads:
Galvanized steel frames rated for 20+ tons per unit.
Custom cradle supports to prevent coil deformation during handling.
Non-slip surface treatments and ISO-compatible forklift pockets.
Seismic-resistant mounting for high-sea transport stability.
Steel pallets eliminate wood-related delays (e.g., ISPM 15 inspections) for heavy shipments, reducing lead times by 15–20%.
Export Capabilities from Ningbo & Shanghai Ports
Strategically positioned at China’s two premier marine equipment hubs, we leverage:
| Port | Key Advantages | Typical Transit Time to Major Hubs |
|---|---|---|
| Ningbo-Zhoushan | – Dedicated marine equipment terminals with 25-ton+ cranes – Customs pre-clearance for marine products – Direct routes to Rotterdam, Singapore, and Dubai |
12–18 days to Europe 8–12 days to Southeast Asia |
| Shanghai | – 24/7 specialized marine cargo handling – Integrated ERP tracking with shipping lines (Maersk, MSC, COSCO) – ISO-certified container yards |
10–14 days to North America 6–10 days to Middle East |
All shipments include Class Society Tensile Test Certificates (BV, ABS, LR, DNV), batch traceability labels, and customs-compliant documentation. Real-time vessel tracking and customs brokerage services ensure zero delays.
AM-2 Anchor Chain Packaging Specifications
| Chain Diameter (mm) | Weight per Meter (kg/m) | Packaging Method | ISPM 15 Compliance | Steel Pallet Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12.5 – 60 | 1.5 – 25.0 | Standard wooden case with VCI wrap | Yes | No |
| 61 – 120 | 26.0 – 100.0 | Wooden case + steel strapping | Yes | Optional (for >5 tons) |
| 121 – 240 | 101.0+ | Reinforced case on steel pallet | Yes | Required |
Custom packaging solutions available for specialized projects (e.g., Arctic-class chains, corrosion-resistant coatings for tropical climates).
Why Partner With Us?
Newbuild Projects: Pre-configured packaging aligned with shipyard assembly schedules.
Ship-Repair Yards: Emergency 72-hour delivery for critical chain replacements.
Global Compliance: All exports adhere to EU Directive 2009/48/EC, US FDA, and GCC standards.
Hangzhou Star Marine Technology: Delivering precision-engineered anchoring solutions that meet the highest maritime safety benchmarks—on time, every time.
Contact Star Marine Technology
Professional Marine Equipment Export Guide: AM-2 Anchor Chain Solutions
Introduction
Hangzhou Star Marine Technology Co., Ltd. delivers precision-engineered AM-2 anchor chains for global shipbuilding and repair industries. As a certified manufacturer, we specialize in high-strength, Class Society-compliant anchoring solutions optimized for reliability, safety, and operational efficiency. Our products meet ISO 1704, GB/T 549, and international standards, ensuring seamless integration into new builds and retrofit projects.
Technical Specifications
AM-2 Anchor Chain Key Parameters
| Parameter | Specification | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Grade | U2 (AM2) | Complies with ISO 1704, BV/ABS/DNV/LR/CCS standards |
| Material | Killed Steel, Fine-Grained | Fully deoxidized for superior toughness and fatigue resistance |
| Configuration | Stud Link (Standard) | Optional studless upon request |
| Weight per Meter | 0.65 kg/m (12.5mm) to 280 kg/m (240mm) | Exact values vary by diameter; full specification sheet available |
| Tensile Strength | ≥ 500 MPa (minimum) | Verified via Class Society tensile test per ISO 1704 |
| Surface Treatment | Hot-Dip Galvanized / Epoxy Black Paint | Customizable for corrosion resistance or environmental compliance |
| Diameter Range | 12.5mm – 240mm | Custom sizes available for specialized applications |
Compliance & Certifications
Class Society Approvals & Quality Assurance
Certified by: Bureau Veritas (BV), American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), DNV, Lloyd’s Register (LR), China Classification Society (CCS)
Traceability: Full material traceability from raw steel to finished chain (ISO 9001 certified)
Testing: Every batch includes:
Class Society Tensile Test Certificate
Chemical composition analysis (C, Mn, Si, P, S)
Hardness and impact toughness verification
Environmental Compliance: Epoxy Black Paint meets IMO VOC regulations; HDG coating complies with ISO 1461
Application Guidance
Vessel Compatibility & Usage Scenarios
| Vessel Type | Recommended Chain Grade | Key Use Cases |
|---|---|---|
| Small/Medium Vessels | AM2 (U2) | 1,000–5,000 DWT ships; general-purpose anchoring for coastal and inland waters |
| Large Vessels | AM3 (U3) | 10,000+ DWT tankers/containerships; primary anchoring for deep-water operations |
| Ship Repair & Refit | AM2 (U2) | Direct replacement for existing AM2 chains; seamless integration with current anchor gear |
| Special Operations | Custom AM2 | Military vessels (black paint for reduced reflectivity), Arctic-class ships (low-temperature toughness) |
Technical Note: AM2 chains are optimized for temporary anchoring in standard operational conditions. For permanent mooring or extreme environments (e.g., offshore platforms), we recommend R3/R4 mooring chains.
Why Choose Hangzhou Star Marine?
End-to-End Technical Support: From vessel-specific chain selection to installation guidance
On-Time Delivery: 30-day lead time for standard orders; expedited shipping for urgent shipyard schedules
Cost-Effective Solutions: Competitive pricing without compromising Class Society compliance
Global Logistics: ISO-compliant packaging and customs documentation for seamless export
Quality Assurance: 100% batch testing with third-party inspection (SGS, BV, etc.)
Contact Us
Partner with Our Experts for Your Next Project
Product Manager: Kacher YE
Tel/WhatsApp: +86-178-16869405
Email: [email protected]
Act Now: Request a free technical datasheet, custom quotation, or on-site consultation for your new build or repair project.
Hangzhou Star Marine Technology: Your trusted partner for marine anchoring solutions since 2005.
⚓ Anchor Chain Weight Estimator
Estimate the weight of Stud Link Anchor Chain (Approx. Formula: 0.0219d²).
