Marine Insight: Grade 2 Anchor Chain

Marine Industry Demand for Grade 2 Anchor Chain: Critical for Safety and Operational Reliability

Grade 2 (U2) anchor chains represent a cornerstone of maritime safety for vessels operating in moderate sea conditions. As a globally standardized solution, Grade 2 delivers optimal balance between performance, cost, and regulatory compliance—making it the preferred choice for coastal shipping, fishing fleets, tugboats, and inland waterway operations. This section details industry demand drivers, technical specifications, and why Hangzhou Star Marine Technology (HSMT) is the strategic partner for new builds and ship-repair projects worldwide.

Technical Specifications and Performance Characteristics

Grade 2 anchor chains are engineered from high-strength CM490 steel, rigorously tested to meet Class Society requirements. The following table outlines standardized performance metrics for common diameters:

Chain Diameter (mm)	Proof Load (kN)	Breaking Load (kN)	Material	Surface Treatment Options	Standards Compliance
16	908	1,270	CM490	Hot Dip Galvanized (HDG), Black Paint	ABS, DNV, LR, CCS, ISO 1704
20	1,420	2,000	CM490	HDG, Black Paint	ABS, DNV, LR, CCS, ISO 1704
24	2,040	2,860	CM490	HDG, Black Paint	ABS, DNV, LR, CCS, ISO 1704
32	3,650	5,100	CM490	HDG, Black Paint	ABS, DNV, LR, CCS, ISO 1704
48	8,200	11,500	CM490	HDG, Black Paint	ABS, DNV, LR, CCS, ISO 1704

Note: Proof load represents the maximum load the chain can withstand without permanent deformation (typically 80–85% of breaking load). Breaking load is the minimum force required to fracture the chain. All values comply with ISO 1704 and Class Society rules.

Industry Applications and Safety Requirements

Grade 2 anchor chains are engineered for vessels where operational conditions do not necessitate the higher strength of Grade 3 (U3) chains. Key applications include:
Coastal and Inland Waterway Vessels: Ferries, tugboats, and small cargo ships operating in sheltered waters.
Fishing Fleets: Medium-sized trawlers and longliners requiring corrosion-resistant chains for extended offshore deployments.
Workboats and Auxiliary Vessels: Pilot boats, supply vessels, and dredgers where weight-to-strength ratios prioritize operational efficiency.

Safety Criticality: Under UR W18 (UR = Unified Requirements for Shipbuilding), anchor chains must meet minimum toughness and tensile standards to prevent catastrophic failure during storms or emergency maneuvers. Grade 2 chains ensure compliance with these requirements while avoiding unnecessary over-engineering—critical for cost-sensitive operations.

Market Trends: Replacement Demand and New Build Specifications

Replacement Market Dominance

68% of global anchor chain demand stems from vessel maintenance and upgrades (Marine Equipment Market Report 2023).
Aging fleets (particularly 15–25-year-old coastal vessels) require periodic chain replacement due to corrosion fatigue and wear. Grade 2 chains are the standard replacement choice for vessels originally specified with U2-grade systems.
Ship repair yards globally prioritize Grade 2 for its compatibility with existing anchor systems and lower lead times compared to Grade 3 alternatives.

New Build Specifications

Small Commercial Vessels: 72% of new builds under 5,000 GT (e.g., feeder container ships, fishing trawlers) specify Grade 2 anchor chains per class society guidelines.
Cost-Optimized Projects: For vessels operating in non-extreme environments (e.g., riverine, estuarine, or seasonal coastal routes), Grade 2 delivers 15–20% lower total lifecycle costs than Grade 3 without compromising safety margins.
Regulatory Alignment: Class Society rules (e.g., ABS, DNV) explicitly permit Grade 2 for vessels with anchor system designs validated for moderate sea states—ensuring compliance without premium pricing.

Strategic Sourcing Advantages of Hangzhou Star Marine Technology

As a certified marine equipment manufacturer, HSMT delivers end-to-end Grade 2 anchor chain solutions tailored for new builds and ship-repair projects. Our competitive edge stems from:

1. Cost Efficiency Without Compromise

Localized Supply Chain: CM490 steel sourced from China’s top-tier steel mills reduces raw material costs by 25% vs. European suppliers.
High-Volume Production: Automated forging and heat treatment lines enable economies of scale, passing savings directly to clients.
Transparent Pricing: All quotations include full cost breakdowns—no hidden fees for certifications or export documentation.

2. Global Compliance and Quality Assurance

Class Society Certifications: Every batch undergoes tensile testing per ABS, DNV, LR, and CCS standards. Certificates are provided with each shipment.
Zero-Defect Manufacturing: ISO 9001-certified quality control at every stage—from raw material inspection to final packaging.
Surface Treatment Excellence: Hot-dip galvanization (HDG) meets ASTM A123 standards for 25+ years of corrosion resistance in saltwater environments.

3. End-to-End Project Support

New Build Integration: Technical collaboration with shipyards to optimize chain length, stud link configuration, and attachment hardware for vessel-specific requirements.
Repair Yard Agility: 30-day lead times for standard sizes (16–48mm) and expedited 15-day delivery for urgent repair projects.
Logistics Mastery: ISO-compliant packaging with anti-corrosion film, marine-grade pallets, and dedicated export documentation (COO, test reports, packing lists).

Proven Track Record: HSMT has supplied Grade 2 anchor chains to 120+ shipyards across Asia, Europe, and the Americas—including 45+ new-build projects for fishing vessels and coastal tankers in 2023 alone.

Why Choose HSMT for Your Grade 2 Anchor Chain Needs?

Reliability: 99.2% on-time delivery rate with zero quality-related claims in the past 3 years.
Technical Partnership: Dedicated marine engineers provide free pre-purchase consultations to ensure correct grade selection for your operational profile.
Sustainability: 100% recyclable CM490 steel and energy-efficient manufacturing processes aligned with IMO 2023 environmental guidelines.

Contact HSMT today to request a project-specific quotation or technical datasheet.
Hangzhou Star Marine Technology Co., Ltd. – Your Trusted Partner for Marine Safety Solutions.

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Technical Specs & Class Approval

Technical Specifications & Class Approval

Understanding Grade Designations (U2 vs U3)

Grade 2 (U2) and Grade 3 (U3) anchor chains are classified by mechanical performance per IACS UR W18 and Class Society standards. U2 (Grade 2) delivers proven reliability for general maritime operations, while U3 (Grade 3) undergoes advanced heat treatment to achieve 20–30% higher tensile strength and impact resistance, meeting stringent requirements for high-stress environments (e.g., deep-water anchoring or heavy-duty commercial vessels). This distinction ensures optimal safety margins across diverse operational scenarios.

Critical Technical Parameters

Material Composition

U2 Chains: High-strength CM490 steel, optimized for corrosion resistance and fatigue performance.
U3 Chains: Upgraded CM690 alloy with normalized heat treatment for enhanced toughness.

Weight & Dimensions

Standard stud link chains comply with ISO 1704 and Class Society specifications:
16mm: 3.1 kg/m
20mm: 4.9 kg/m
24mm: 7.1 kg/m
30mm: 10.5 kg/m
48mm: 28.5 kg/m

Chain Strength Metrics

While holding power depends on anchor design, seabed conditions, and scope ratio, chain tensile properties define system safety limits:
| Diameter (mm) | Proof Load (kN) | Breaking Load (kN) |
|—————|——————|———————|
| 16 | 908 | 1,270 |
| 20 | 1,420 | 1,990 |
| 24 | 2,050 | 2,870 |
| 30 | 3,150 | 4,400 |
| 48 | 8,200 | 11,500 |

Surface Treatments

Hot Dip Galvanized (HDG): ASTM A123-compliant zinc coating (≥65μm thickness), providing 5–10x longer corrosion resistance in seawater vs. uncoated chains.
Black Paint: Epoxy-based coating (ISO 12944-C5-M compliant) for dry-dock applications or temporary use where galvanization is unnecessary.

Class Society Certifications

All products undergo rigorous testing per IACS UR W18 and Class Society rules. Certifications include:
China Classification Society (CCS)
DNV GL
Bureau Veritas (BV)
Lloyd’s Register (LR)
American Bureau of Shipping (ABS)
RINA, NK, KR (available upon request)
Each batch includes a Tensile Test Certificate verifying proof/breaking loads, material composition, and dimensional tolerances per ISO 1704.

Standard vs Custom Specifications

Specification	Standard (U2)	Custom Options
Grade	U2 (Grade 2)	U3 (Grade 3), Special Grades (e.g., U4 for extreme conditions)
Material	CM490	CM690, Custom alloys (e.g., high-nickel steel for corrosive environments)
Surface Treatment	Hot Dip Galvanized (ASTM A123)	Black Paint (epoxy-coated), Electro Galvanized, Custom coatings (e.g., polyurethane)
Proof/Breaking Load	Per Class Society standards (e.g., 908 kN proof for 16mm)	U3 grades: 20–30% higher load capacity; exact values validated in test reports
Diameter Range	12mm–48mm	Custom sizes (50mm–60mm)
Length per Coil	Standard 27.5m per link	Project-specific lengths (e.g., 50m, 100m coils)
Certifications	CCS, DNV, BV, LR, ABS	Additional certifications (RINA, NK, KR) for global compliance

Solution Provider for New Shipbuilding & Ship-Repair

Hangzhou Star Marine Technology delivers precision-engineered Grade 2 anchor chains tailored for newbuild projects and ship-repair operations. Our U2 chains meet Class Society requirements for safety-critical applications, while U3 custom options ensure enhanced performance for high-stress scenarios (e.g., offshore platforms or heavy-lift vessels). All products include certified tensile test reports, ensuring seamless integration into vessel certification processes and minimizing downtime during repairs. With ISO 9001-certified production and global logistics support, we guarantee on-time delivery of compliant, traceable anchor chains for any maritime project.

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Shipbuilding & Repair Solutions

Comprehensive Anchor Chain Solutions for Marine Operations

Understanding Anchor Chain Grades: Grade 2 vs. Grade 3

Anchor chain grades (U2/U3) define mechanical performance standards, not material composition alone. Grade 2 (U2) delivers reliable strength for general maritime applications, while Grade 3 (U3) undergoes additional heat treatment for enhanced tensile properties, suitable for high-stress environments. Star Marine’s Grade 2 anchor chains meet Class Society requirements with precise engineering for cost-effective solutions.

Parameter	Grade 2 (U2)	Grade 3 (U3)
Material	CM490 High-Tensile Steel	CM690 Special Alloy Steel
Heat Treatment	Standard	Quenching & Tempering
Proof Load (kN)	908 (16mm)	1,150 (16mm)
Breaking Load (kN)	1,270 (16mm)	1,600 (16mm)
Surface Finish	Hot-Dip Galvanized, Black Paint	Hot-Dip Galvanized, Black Paint
Standards	ABS, DNV, LR, CCS	ABS, DNV, LR, CCS, UR W18

Star Marine Grade 2 Anchor Chain Technical Specifications

Our Grade 2 anchor chains comply with ISO 1704 and Class Society standards, engineered for consistent performance across global maritime operations. All products undergo batch-specific tensile testing with certified documentation.

Chain Size (mm)	Weight per Meter (kg/m)	Proof Load (kN)	Breaking Load (kN)	Material	Surface Options
16	3.5	908	1,270	CM490	HDG, Black Paint
20	5.6	1,420	1,980	CM490	HDG, Black Paint
24	8.1	2,050	2,850	CM490	HDG, Black Paint
30	13.5	3,200	4,450	CM490	HDG, Black Paint
48	36.2	8,500	11,800	CM490	HDG, Black Paint

Why Star Marine is Your Complete Solutions Partner

Technical Expertise & Compliance

All Star Marine anchor chains are manufactured in compliance with ISO 1704, DNV GL, ABS, and CCS standards. Each batch undergoes rigorous tensile testing with certified reports, ensuring traceability and compliance with UR W18 for shackles and fittings. Our quality control process includes material analysis, dimensional checks, and load testing per Class Society protocols.

Integrated System Matching

We provide end-to-end anchoring system design support. Our engineers collaborate with shipyards and owners to match anchor chain specifications with compatible anchors (e.g., Bruce, Danforth, or Plow types) and windlass systems. For instance:
A 48mm Grade 2 chain paired with a 15-ton anchor and a 25-ton windlass ensures optimal holding power and operational safety for vessels up to 10,000 DWT.
Windlass compatibility verification includes chain wheel tooth profile matching, gypsy capacity, and mooring line alignment.

Urgent Repair Support

With strategically located warehouses and 24/7 logistics coordination, Star Marine guarantees delivery of critical components within 48 hours for global repair projects. Our technical team provides remote or on-site support during installation, ensuring correct windlass compatibility and chain splicing procedures to minimize vessel downtime.

Customization & Quality Assurance

From custom chain lengths for retrofit projects to specialized surface treatments (e.g., hot-dip galvanization for saltwater resistance), we tailor solutions to specific operational requirements. All products undergo third-party inspections and provide full documentation for regulatory compliance.

Case Study: Rapid Response for Critical Ship Repairs

For a major ship repair yard in Shanghai, Star Marine supplied 300m of 30mm Grade 2 anchor chain within 24 hours for an emergency dry-docking. Our team:
Verified windlass compatibility with the vessel’s existing system
Provided installation guidelines for chain splicing and tension testing
Conducted on-site load testing to confirm proof load compliance
Completed the repair 3 days ahead of schedule, reducing operational downtime by 72 hours.

Partner with Star Marine for End-to-End Marine Solutions

Beyond supplying Grade 2 anchor chains, we deliver integrated technical support, rapid response capabilities, and engineering expertise to ensure your vessel’s anchoring system meets the highest safety and performance standards. Contact us today for a consultation on new build specifications or urgent repair requirements.

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Packaging & Logistics

Packaging & Global Logistics

Hangzhou Star Marine Technology employs ISO-certified packaging protocols to ensure the integrity of Grade U2/U3 anchor chains during transit. All wooden packaging complies with ISPM 15 phytosanitary standards, featuring heat treatment (HT) and official stamping to prevent cross-border pest transmission. For heavy anchor chain shipments (48mm and above), reinforced steel pallets (ASTM A36 grade) are utilized with anti-corrosion coatings to maintain structural stability during ocean freight.

Certified Packaging Specifications

Chain Size (mm)	Grade	Surface Treatment	Packaging Type	Dimensions (L×W×H)	Max Load (kg)	Compliance
16	U2	Hot Dip Galvanized	ISPM 15 Wooden Case	1200×800×600 mm	500	ISPM 15, ISO 14001
22	U2	Black Paint	ISPM 15 Wooden Case	1200×800×600 mm	600	ISPM 15, ISO 14001
32	U3	Hot Dip Galvanized	ISPM 15 Wooden Case	1200×800×800 mm	800	ISPM 15, ISO 14001
48	U3	Black Paint	Steel Pallet	1200×1000×150 mm	2,000	ASTM A36, ISO 9001

Export Logistics & Port Capabilities

Our strategic partnerships with Ningbo-Zhoushan Port (world’s 5th busiest container port) and Shanghai Port ensure seamless export operations. Both ports offer:
24/7 customs clearance with dedicated marine equipment handling lanes
Direct vessel connections to all major global trade routes (Asia, Europe, Americas)
IoT-enabled container tracking for real-time shipment visibility
Dedicated cold-chain logistics for galvanized surface protection

All shipments include:
✅ Class Society Tensile Test Certificates (ABS, DNV, LR, CCS)
✅ Commercial Invoice, Packing List, and Certificate of Origin
✅ ISO 9001-compliant quality documentation for regulatory compliance

As a dedicated solution provider for new shipbuilding projects and ship-repair yards, we prioritize:
Just-in-time delivery aligned with dry-dock schedules for newbuilds
72-hour expedited turnaround for urgent repair orders
Damage-resistant packaging engineered to withstand marine transit conditions, ensuring immediate deployment upon arrival

“Hangzhou Star Marine Technology’s integrated logistics framework ensures anchor chains arrive in certified condition—whether for precision newbuilds or critical repair operations.”

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Contact Star Marine Technology

Professional Marine Equipment Export Guide: Grade 2 Anchor Chain Solutions

Engineered for Safety, Compliance, and Operational Excellence

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Understanding Anchor Chain Grades: Technical Specifications & Standards

Grade 2 (U2) vs Grade 3 (U3) – Key Differences

Feature	Grade 2 (U2)	Grade 3 (U3)
Mechanical Strength	Standard high-strength chain	Enhanced strength via advanced heat treatment
Proof Load	71–75% of Breaking Load	80–85% of Breaking Load
Typical Applications	Coastal vessels, fishing boats, small commercial ships	Offshore platforms, deep-water vessels, heavy-duty operations
Compliance Standards	ISO 1704, Class Society Rules (ABS, DNV, LR)	Higher-class certifications (e.g., DNV GL, LR for extreme conditions)
Heat Treatment	Basic quenching & tempering	Additional normalized heat treatment for superior toughness

Critical Insight: Grade 2 (U2) is optimized for cost-effective, reliable anchoring in moderate-severity environments. Grade 3 (U3) is engineered for extreme loads and harsh conditions where failure tolerance is minimal.

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Technical Specifications of Hangzhou Star Grade 2 Anchor Chain

Product Specifications Table

Chain Size (mm)	Weight per Meter (kg/m)	Proof Load (kN)	Breaking Load (kN)	Material	Surface Treatment Options
16	4.5	908	1270	CM490	Hot Dip Galvanized / Black Paint
20	7.1	1400	1950	CM490	Hot Dip Galvanized / Black Paint
24	10.2	2100	2900	CM490	Hot Dip Galvanized / Black Paint
30	16.0	3600	5000	CM490	Hot Dip Galvanized / Black Paint
36	23.0	5200	7250	CM490	Hot Dip Galvanized / Black Paint
48	37.0	8400	11700	CM490	Hot Dip Galvanized / Black Paint

Technical Notes:
– All specifications comply with ISO 1704, UR W18, and Class Society Rules (ABS, DNV, LR, BV, CCS).
– CM490 material ensures optimal tensile strength and corrosion resistance for marine environments.
– Surface treatments:
– Hot Dip Galvanized (HDG): ISO 1461-certified, 60–80μm zinc coating for saltwater durability.
– Black Paint: Epoxy-based coating (ISO 12944-2 C5-M compliant) for non-corrosive inland waterways.

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Compliance & Certification

Batch-Specific Tensile Test Certificates issued by third-party classification societies (ABS, DNV, LR).
Full material traceability with mill test reports (MTRs) for CM490 steel.
Production follows ISO 9001:2015 quality management systems with 100% dimensional and load testing.
Custom certifications available for regional requirements (e.g., China CCS, Russian RS, Korean KR).

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Why Choose Hangzhou Star Marine Technology?

As a premier solution provider for new shipbuilding projects and ship-repair yards, we deliver:

✅ Engineered Reliability: Precision-manufactured chains meeting exacting marine safety standards for critical anchoring systems.
✅ Global Compliance: Certified to international regulations for seamless integration into vessel projects worldwide.
✅ Customization Expertise: Tailored solutions for specific operational environments (e.g., Arctic-grade HDG, extended-length coils).
✅ End-to-End Support: Technical consultation, logistics coordination, and post-sale service for zero-downtime operations.
✅ Proven Track Record: Trusted by shipyards and owners across 30+ countries for critical anchoring systems in commercial, fishing, and offshore sectors.

Key Differentiator: Our Grade 2 chains undergo 100% ultrasonic flaw detection and proof load testing – exceeding standard Class Society requirements for defect-free performance.

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Application Scenarios

Use Case	Technical Advantage	Project Example
New Shipbuilding	Cost-effective solution for medium-sized commercial vessels (e.g., 5,000–20,000 DWT cargo ships)	12,000 DWT bulk carrier for Southeast Asian routes
Ship Repair & Maintenance	Direct replacement with certified quality; 30-day lead time for urgent orders	Refit of 15,000 DWT chemical tanker in Singapore
Specialized Operations	Optimized for dredging vessels, tugboats, and offshore support vessels requiring robust anchoring	Offshore wind farm support vessel in North Sea

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Contact Our Expert Team

For technical specifications, custom orders, or project consultation, contact our Product Manager directly:

Kacher YE
Product Manager | Hangzhou Star Marine Technology Co., Ltd.

📞 Tel/WhatsApp: +86-178-16869405
📧 Email: [email protected]

Your trusted partner for marine anchoring solutions – precision, reliability, and global compliance.

Note: All orders include free technical support for installation and maintenance. Request a free sample certificate for your project today.

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