Fundamentals of Anchoring Operation

Summary

This instructional video provides essential anchoring procedures for a capsized bulk carrier, emphasizing two primary methods: normal and deep water anchoring. It details preparation steps, including assessing weather and seabed conditions, ensuring effective communication among crew members, and proper equipment setup. The video outlines the process of walking out the anchor cable, monitoring ship movement, and safely dropping the anchor. Additionally, it highlights the importance of checking anchor tension and seabed conditions to prevent issues such as anchor burial or debris entanglement. This comprehensive guide is crucial for maritime safety and efficiency during anchoring operations.

Takeaways

• 🚢 Prior to dropping anchor, assess weather conditions, water depth, seabed nature, and traffic to determine the appropriate anchoring method.
• ⚓ There are two primary anchoring methods: normal anchoring and deep water anchoring, with deep water anchoring preferred for depths over 25 meters.
• 🔧 Use a windlass for deep water anchoring, walking out the cable until the anchor is close to the bottom before setting it.
• 📏 The cable length paid out should be calculated based on the water depth, typically 6.5 shackles for 30 meters and 9.5 shackles for heavy weather.
• 🌊 Understand the external forces acting on the ship, such as wind and wave drift, which affect the tension on the anchor cable.
• 📞 Confirm communication among the anchor team using a transceiver or talkback system before beginning anchoring operations.
• ⚠️ Always conduct a trial run of the windlass handbrake and ensure it’s secure before releasing the anchor.
• 🧭 Use navigational equipment to monitor headway and adjust speed accordingly to maintain control during the anchoring process.
• 🔄 After dropping the anchor, maintain sternway to prevent the anchor chain from piling up and ensure proper cable payout.
• 🪝 Regularly inspect the anchor and cable to avoid issues like burial in the seabed or entanglement with debris, especially for long-term anchoring.

Q & A

What factors should be considered before dropping an anchor?

Before dropping an anchor, one should consider weather conditions, sea conditions, water depth, the nature of the seabed, and traffic conditions.

What are the two main anchoring methods mentioned in the script?

The two main anchoring methods are normal anchoring and deep water anchoring.

What distinguishes deep water anchoring from normal anchoring?

Deep water anchoring is conducted in water depths of over 25 meters and typically involves a different procedure to reduce risks associated with deeper water conditions.

What is the recommended length of cable to be paid out when anchoring in 30 meters of water?

For a water depth of 30 meters, the recommended cable payout length is 180 meters, or 6.5 shackles.

How does heavy weather affect the length of cable to be paid out?

In heavy weather, the cable payout length increases to 265 meters, or 9.5 shackles, to provide greater holding power against external forces.

What should be confirmed before starting the anchoring procedure?

A communication test should be conducted using a transceiver or talkback to ensure all personnel involved in the operation can communicate effectively.

Why is it important to maintain a sternway during the anchoring process?

Maintaining sternway is crucial to prevent the anchor cable from piling up on the seabed and to avoid damaging the windlass and anchoring system.

What actions should be taken when dropping the anchor?

When dropping the anchor, the windlass operator should gradually loosen the brake to control the speed of the anchor chain, and watch the angle and direction of the cable being paid out.

How often should the anchor position be checked when at anchor?

It is important to periodically check the anchor position to ensure it has not become buried in the seabed or caught on debris, especially if the ship has been anchored for an extended period.

What is the purpose of using a hand lead at a new anchorage?

Using a hand lead at a new anchorage helps to check the nature of the seabed before anchoring, ensuring the anchor will hold properly.