Join our crew and become one of the 104,571 members that receive our newsletter.

There Goes the Anchor Chain – VIDEO

There Goes the Anchor Chain – VIDEO

Rob Almeida
Total Views: 745
August 13, 2012

While lowering the anchor from USS Tarawa (LHA-1) in 2001, the ship’s anchor, plus 13 shots of chain were lost in a plume of rust and fury of sparks and noise.

This incident occurred due to a failure of the windlass brake, which allowed the anchor to flow freely and uncontrolled until the “breakaway link” failed.  This link is the last link of chain and attached to the structure of the hull inside the chain locker.  It is designed to fail in the case of a runaway anchor chain, rather than cause damage to the structure of the ship’s hull.

Unlock Exclusive Insights Today!

Join the gCaptain Club for curated content, insider opinions, and vibrant community discussions.

Sign Up
Back to Main
polygon icon polygon icon

Why Join the gCaptain Club?

Access exclusive insights, engage in vibrant discussions, and gain perspectives from our CEO.

Sign Up
close

JOIN OUR CREW

Maritime and offshore news trusted by our 104,571 members delivered daily straight to your inbox.

Join Our Crew

Join the 104,571 members that receive our newsletter.