Tank Top Guide Fitting Counter Bearings AN-A1 and Half AN-A2 are key foundation components for container securing systems on bulk carriers and general cargo ships. These welded base fittings are designed to support tank top guide fittings and ensure stable positioning of container corner castings. Cast from high-strength steel and precisely machined, both types provide robust support under heavy cargo loads.

Their main function is to serve as pressure-bearing supports/anti-compression blocks, which bear the entire weight of the hatch cover after it is closed and the operational impact loads, and safely transmit them to the hull structure.

AN-A1 is a full-structure counter bearing block made of high-strength steel. It features an integrated welded base with reinforcement plates on all sides to enhance its load-bearing capacity and structural rigidity. The top surface includes a recessed slot designed to align with container corner castings or guide fittings. Installed at the bottom of the cargo hold, AN-A1 provides a stable and complete bearing platform for guide fittings, ensuring secure positioning of the container’s bottom corner or other guiding systems.

AN-A2 represents one half of a counter bearing block (“Half”), featuring a semi-structured steel design for flexible installation. Its modular structure allows for easy height or leveling adjustments and simplifies the replacement of worn components. AN-A2 is typically used in conjunction with guide fittings in areas where a full counter bearing cannot be installed—such as space-constrained zones, corner edges, or where maintenance access is critical.

Drawings and Features of Tank Top Guide Fitting Counter Bearing AN-A1

Application Use Cases

Standard Cargo Hold Container Base Fitting

AN-A1 is commonly used in cargo holds of bulk carriers or multipurpose vessels, providing full base support for ISO container corner castings.

Heavy-Duty Container Securing Systems

Ideal for locations that require high structural integrity, such as under heavy-lift containers, reefer containers, or dangerous goods units.

Installation with Single Flush Foundation AA-A1

Works as a lower support element in tank top container guide blocks installed flush to deck level.

Shipyard Newbuilding Projects

Frequently specified in new shipbuilding where full-block guide systems are designed for containerized cargo spaces.

Retrofitting Old Vessel Cargo Holds

Used in modernization projects to add secure base fittings for containers in older ships.

Drawings and Features of Tank Top Guide Fitting Counter Bearing Half AN-A2

Application Use Cases

Edge or Constrained Area Installation

Designed for use in hull sections where space does not allow for full AN-A1 installation — such as near frames, stiffeners, or bulkhead corners.

Complementary Use with AN-A1

Often used in combination with AN-A1 within the same container bay, offering flexibility while maintaining structural integrity.

Customized Container Guide Layouts

Supports asymmetric guide block systems, used in custom ship designs or special cargo vessel conversions.

Repair & Replacement Applications

Easier to install during localized hull repair or as a retrofit element when replacing damaged components.

Lashing Support Structure Base

Provides foundation support for deck lashing eyes or twistlock reinforcement in partial systems.

With over a decade of manufacturing and global distribution experience, OLIPORTS has developed deep expertise in container lashing and cargo securing systems. We fully understand the design drawings, structural layouts, and mechanical calculations behind every container ship’s securing solution — allowing us to respond quickly and accurately to your technical requirements.

• Deep understanding of ship lashing plans and design drawings
• Support for custom layouts to match your vessel and route
• ISO-compliant and class-approved products with full documentation
• Fast quote turnaround and fewer sample revisions
• Trusted by yards, shipowners, and retrofit contractors worldwide

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