Choosing the Right Windlass Chain: Chain Types Explained
Selecting the correct chain is essential for smooth windlass operation and reliable anchoring performance. This lesson explains the three common types of marine chain, how they differ in strength and link dimensions, and why your chain must match the windlass chain wheel. You’ll also learn the differences between galvanized and stainless steel chain for windlass applications.
Understanding Windlass Chain Types
Matching the Chain to the Windlass
A windlass chain wheel is designed for a specific chain diameter and chain type. For proper operation, the chain must match the chain wheel’s specifications.
The Three Common Marine Chain Types
The lesson explains that there are three primary types of marine chain:
- Proof Coil (Grade 30)
- Triple B (BBB) Chain (Grade 30)
- High Test (Grade 43 / G4)
Although these chains may share the same diameter within a size class, they differ in link length, or pitch, which affects how they engage with the chain wheel.
High Test vs. Triple B
High Test (Grade 43) chain is commonly selected because it offers the greatest strength—typically about twice the strength of Triple B chain.
Triple B chain has shorter, rounder links, allowing it to move more smoothly through the chain wheel during deployment and retrieval. However, this smoother operation comes with reduced strength compared to High Test chain.
Stainless Steel Chain
Some boat owners choose stainless steel chain for its appearance. Stainless chain is generally uncalibrated, unlike calibrated High Test chain, but it can perform well when manufactured to the same dimensions as High Test chain. The lesson also notes that stainless steel chain is significantly more expensive and is not as strong as galvanized High Test chain.
Key Concept Summary
| Chain Type | Characteristics |
| Proof Coil (Grade 30) | Standard marine chain with its own link dimensions. |
| Triple B (BBB) Grade 30 | Shorter, rounder links for smoother windlass operation but lower strength. |
| High Test (Grade 43 / G4) | Strongest common marine chain and the most popular choice. |
| Stainless Steel Chain | Attractive appearance but higher cost, uncalibrated, and lower strength than galvanized High Test chain. |
NauticEd Practical Takeaways
Match the Chain Wheel
Always use a chain that matches the specifications of the windlass chain wheel for proper operation.
Consider Strength
High Test chain provides greater strength than Triple B chain while maintaining the same diameter within a size class.
Consider Recovery Performance
Triple B chain’s shorter, rounder links provide smoother deployment and recovery through the windlass.
Evaluate Stainless Steel Carefully
Stainless steel chain offers an attractive appearance but comes at a significantly higher cost and lower strength than galvanized High Test chain.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the chain need to match the windlass?
The chain wheel is designed for a specific chain diameter and chain type. Using the correct chain ensures it fits and operates properly with the windlass.
What are the three common types of marine chain?
The lesson identifies Proof Coil (Grade 30), Triple B (BBB) Grade 30, and High Test (Grade 43/G4) as the three common marine chain types.
Why is High Test chain commonly recommended?
High Test chain offers the greatest strength and is typically about twice as strong as Triple B chain, making it the most common choice for many boat owners.
Why do some boaters choose Triple B chain?
Triple B chain has shorter, rounder links that move more smoothly through the windlass chain wheel during deployment and recovery.
Can a coated waterproof jacket go in the dryer?
No. Coated fabric jackets should air dry (hang dry) only. Only trilaminate jackets can be tumble dried, and only on a low heat setting with clean towels to absorb excess moisture.
What is calibrated chain?
Calibrated chain has links with identical dimensions throughout its length. The lesson notes that High Test ACCO chain is calibrated, while stainless steel chain is generally uncalibrated.
Is stainless steel chain stronger than galvanized chain?
No. According to the lesson, stainless steel chain is more expensive and provides an attractive appearance, but it is not as strong as galvanized High Test chain.
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