When the ship needs to anchor, the windlass operates the sprocket (or drum) to release the anchor chain, allowing the anchor to smoothly sink to the seabed. Upon departure, the windlass pulls the anchor back up from the seabed and retrieves the anchor chain. The anchoring process requires considerable power, as the anchor is influenced by factors like sediment resistance and water flow force.
Types of windlass
1. Electric windlass
2. Hydraulic windlass
3. Vertical windlass
4. Horizontal windlass
Marine windlass play a crucial role when ships are berthed or anchored in anchorages. It can control the retraction of anchor chains, allowing the ship's anchor to be smoothly thrown into the water or retrieved from the seabed.
For example, when the ship arrives at the designated anchorage, the crew gradually releases the anchor chain by operating the anchor winch, allowing the ship anchor to sink and catch the bottom, thereby fixing the position of the ship.
When the ship is ready to set sail, the anchor winch can retract the anchor chain, pull up the ship anchor and fix it on the ship.
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