Author(s)

Michael Bedwell

Abstract

The purpose of the paper is to encourage a more critical approach in the selection of anchor cables. While the design of anchors continues to undergo continuous refinement, that of the simpler but equally critical cable appears to be left to sea lore. A theoretical analysis is offered of two main functions of the cable: those of maximising (1) the horizontal force that can be transmitted between the anchor and the vessel, and (2) the surge energy the cable can absorb. The conclusion is that a rope attached to a relatively heavy chain will often be more effective than the same weight of conventional all-chain cable. This is of special relevance to vessels such as ferries where anchoring is an emergency rather than a routine operation. 1 Introduction If a sailor from the Napoleonic wars were to come back today, he would surely look at ou

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