Anchor chain

[geoffr98]

Hi,
Just looking into some options for anchor chain..

If what I have read correctly most anchor chain is grade 40, does anyone see any reasons for or against using Grade 70 ? Is it lighter or heavier ? (I understand it is stronger per weight..), will it resist rusting in salt water better ?

thanks,
Geoff.

[PBzeer]

70 has larger links, and windlasses are sized according to 40.

[Craig Smith]

Originally Posted by geoffr98

Just looking into some options for anchor chain..

If what I have read correctly most anchor chain is grade 40, does anyone see any reasons for or against using Grade 70 ? Is it lighter or heavier ? (I understand it is stronger per weight..), will it resist rusting in salt water better ?

It's just the steel used. G70 is high tensile, G40 is medium. There are pros and cons. For the same strength, you may use much lighter G70 - this is something we recommend. However it is much more expensive and there are caveats.

It doesn't make any difference to rusting, although G70, particularly smaller sizes, may not be easily re-galvanized without affecting its strength.

You may need to change the wildcat (gypsy) if you are upgrading. Otherwise just order the windlass/capstan with the correct matching one in the first place.

Try the link.
www.rocna.com/boat-anchors/catenary.php

[sailingdog]

If you don't maintain your chain properly, G40 will have a bit more safety margin, since the actual chain is heavier than the G70. And as PBz has pointed out, very few windlass gypsies are designed for the G70 chain links. G70 chain is often used on moorings, but not for anchor rodes from what I've seen.

[geoffr98]

thanks guys... looks like I'll be going with 40 so it matches our windlass (and won't weaken as much as it rusts).