Anchor Chain Lab

ANCHOR WITH PHYSICAL PRECISION – FOR SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION.

Anchor Chain Lab is a professional tool for skippers who rely on data rather than guessing. It simulates the physics of the catenary curve to analyze complex anchoring setups, including the use of Floats and Kellets.

WHY ANCHOR CHAIN LAB?

• SEABED PROTECTION (FLOATS) Calculate exactly where to position mid-line floats (buoys) to lift your chain off the bottom. This allows you to anchor in sensitive areas without damaging coral reefs or seagrass, while ensuring the pull angle at the anchor remains effective. The app visualizes the curve to verify that the chain clears the seabed.

• KELLETS (RIDING WEIGHTS) Optimize your gear with kellets to lower the angle of pull at the anchor shank and increase damping during gusts. Instantly see how a weight affects the catenary curve and the resulting forces.

• DYNAMIC SCOPE CALCULATION Answer the critical question: "How much chain do I need at 30 knots of wind to keep the anchor pull angle flat?" Instead of guessing, define your maximum allowable angle at the anchor (e.g., 0° or 5°). The app calculates the required chain length based on water depth and your vessel's specific wind load.

DETAILED ANALYSIS

• Interactive Visualization: Zoom and pan through the calculated chain curve.
• Force Analysis: Compare pull-out forces and chain angles at the anchor shank.
• Mixed Warps: Calculate setups using chain, rope, or a combination of both.
• Vessel Profiling: Configure accurate wind load parameters (Cp x A) based on your hull, superstructure, and canvas.

Whether you want to optimize your storm holding power or anchor cleanly in a nature reserve – Anchor Chain Lab provides the mathematics behind the maneuver.

DISCLAIMER & LIABILITY

This application is intended as a navigational aid and relies on theoretical physical models and mathematical calculations under idealized conditions.

Real-world anchoring is influenced by numerous unpredictable factors, including but not limited to seabed holding characteristics, dynamic wave loads, currents, and yawing. The values provided are theoretical estimates only.

The safety of the vessel, the selection of the anchorage, and the deployment of ground tackle remain the sole responsibility of the skipper. The developer assumes no liability for any damage or incidents resulting from the use of this application.