Windlass and Calibrated Anchor Chain

Calibrated windlass chains to fit Lewmar, Quick, Simpson-Lawrence, Lofrans and many more.

An Overview

Windlass chains need to be calibrated to ensure consistent dimensions. Furthermore, the same chain is rarely interchangeable between different makes of windlasses. Even if the chain diameter is the same they are likely to require links of different dimensions to ensure a good fit.

Calibrated chain is chain that is made to internationally accepted standard dimensions with close tolerances. Two of the more commonly used specifications today are DIN 766 Calibrated Chain and ISO Calibrated Chain. The difference between the two specifications can be 2mm or more on the inside pitch of the link for the same diameter chain, which over several links if the wrong chain was fitted would cause the chain to jam or jump out of the pocketed wheel. To ensure compatibility please state your windlass make and gypsy number when requesting a quotation.

Large end links, shackles and anchors are available. Our "Mooring and Anchoring" booklet gives guidance on suitable chains and anchors (please click download button to right of screen).

The table below compares different strengths of commonly used chain in the marine environment.
NOMINAL CHAIN DIAMETER (mm) 6 7 8 9.5 11 12 14 16
GRADE 30 Hot Dipped Galvanised & 316 Stainless Steel Proof test force in kN 7.2 9.7 12.7 17.9 24 28.6 38.8 51
Minimum breaking force in kN   18.0    24.4   31.8   44.8  60 71.4 97  128 
GRADE 40 Hot Dipped Galvanised
Proof test force in kN
- 12.2 15.9 22.4 30 35.7 48.5 64
Minimum breaking force in kN - 30.8 40.4 56.8 76.2 90.6 126 162
GRADE 50 – 316 Stainless Steel
Proof test force in kN
15 - 25 40 -  13mm 
62
- 100
Minimum breaking force in kN 30 - 50  80  - 125 - 200
Approximate weight per metre
(in kilograms)
0.8 1.0 1.4 2.0 2.7 3.2 4.3 5.5
Tel: 01384-636233
Fax:  01384-634289
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