SuperbaKnowledge Demonstration release
Platforms
Superba ecosystem
SuperbaHubEcosystem overview — how the environments connect, and the architecture behind them
Independent demonstrations
Superba KnowledgeYou are hereOperational maritime knowledge
Carbon Easy MapsMaritime decarbonisation, mappedPSC Easy MapsPort State Control, understood as a system
Training
LearningTraining delivery
ENIT
Superba ecosystem
SuperbaHubEcosystem overview — how the environments connect, and the architecture behind them
Independent demonstrations
Superba KnowledgeYou are hereOperational maritime knowledge
Carbon Easy MapsMaritime decarbonisation, mappedPSC Easy MapsPort State Control, understood as a system
Training
LearningTraining delivery
Home › Dry Dock › Anchor and Chain Cable Survey
Operational guide · Certification & surveys

Anchor and Chain Cable Survey

Anchors and chain cables are ranged/examined at Special Survey; gauging is required from Special Survey No.2 onward or where class Rules/surveyor require, not link-by-link every cycle.

anchorchain cableanchor chainspecial survey

Operational Explanation

Anchors and chain cables are ranged/examined at Special Survey; gauging is required from Special Survey No.2 onward or where class Rules/surveyor require, not link-by-link every cycle.

Regulatory Reference

Applicable class survey Rules; IACS UR A1.6 12% mean-diameter wastage criterion; W18 for manufacture/testing.

A1.6 concerns stud-link chain cables for bower anchors. Mean diameter at the most worn section is the average of the minimum diameter and the perpendicular diameter in that same section. Compare it with the required nominal diameter: do not average several links to conceal a worn location. IACS UR A1 Rev.8 (June 2023), §A1.6.

Calculation example: required nominal diameter 50 mm, with perpendicular readings of 43 and 45 mm at the most worn section. Their mean is 44 mm, a 12% reduction: the renewal criterion is reached. Class determines the affected length and components to renew; acceptable diameter does not exclude other defects. IACS UR A1.6: worked example.

Scope of Application

Measurement extent/locations follow survey number, Rules and surveyor. Renew affected length where mean diameter at most worn part is reduced by 12% or more.

Procedure / How to Complete It

  1. Range and clean cable as required.
  2. Examine anchors, joining shackles and links.
  3. Gauge from SS No.2 or where required.
  4. Use class-Rule extent/locations.
  5. Apply A1.6 and surveyor decision to renewal.

Practical Example

At first Special Survey cable may be ranged/examined without a universal full link-by-link campaign; findings may extend gauging.

What Typically Goes Wrong

Declaring full five-year gauging and measuring every link at every Renewal/Special Survey.

Common Mistakes Mistake Library

MistakeConsequenceHow to Avoid It
Declaring full five-year gauging and measuring every link at every Renewal/Special Survey.Non-compliant decision or treatmentFollow the approved arrangement and applicable sources

What the PSCO Checks

Check anchoring equipment condition and availability, examination and gauging reports, identification of renewed lengths and replacement documentation. The dimensional criterion does not replace examination for damage, deformation and connection defects.

Operational Tips

Preparation checklist

FAQ

Is every link measured every five years?
No.
When is gauging required?
From Special Survey No.2 and where Rules/surveyor require.

Related Topics

Dry Dock Entry PlanningSurvey in Dry Dock

Last substantive revision of this page: 16 September 2026 · page fingerprint 5345107e3170