Premium Studless Anchor Chain for Marine Applications
–Studless (Open Link) Anchor Chain Supplier–
What Is Studless Anchor Chain?
A studless anchor chain is a marine chain whose links lack internal crossbar reinforcement, often referred to as an open link chain. The term “open link” describes the absence of a central stud inside each chain link, resulting in a lighter, more flexible structure compared to stud-link anchor chains.
However, in marine classification standards, the correct technical term remains “studless anchor chain”. OLIPORTS’ open link chains are available in various standards including DIN 766 (Short Link), DIN 763 (Long Link), and ISO 4565
OLIPORTS anchor chains are manufactured using a Standard Welding Process. Compared to stud-link anchor chains, the studless chain is lighter, more flexible, and easier to handle, while maintaining excellent tensile strength.
Widely used in offshore mooring systems, floating platforms, and offshore towing and anchoring applications.
Manufactured using deep hot forging, precision welding, and high tensile strength materials, these chains are designed to withstand harsh marine environments.
As a leading China mooring anchor chain manufacturer, OLIPORTS offers certified marine mooring chain solutions, including U2, U3, CM490, and CM690 grades, to ensure the safety of your anchor mooring systems.
Technical Features of Studless Anchor Chain

| Item | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Material Options | Hot-rolled anchor steel (CM490, CM690), Stainless Steel 316, 316L |
| Chain Grades | U1/U2/U3 |
| Diameter Range | φ12.5mm — φ162mm |
| Finishing Options | Hot dip galvanized, Black painted |
| Appearance | Natural; Electroplated; Heat-treated; Blackened; Painted; Electrocoated |
| Length per Shot | 27.5 meters |
| Standards | ISO 1707, ISO 4565 |
| Certifications | IACS-certified by DNV, GL, ABS, LRS, RINA, BV, NK, KR, IRS, RS |
| Category | Marine Mooring; Anchor Chain; |
| Tags | Studless Chain; anchor mooring system; CM690 anchor chain |
How ensure the strength and durability of studless anchor chains?
OLIPORTS’ linkless anchor chains are manufactured using advanced forging and welding techniques to ensure structural integrity and marine-grade reliability.
- Deep hot forging: Each link undergoes high-temperature hot forging to enhance internal density and structural integrity, making the chain more robust, durable, and resistant to breakage.
- Precision Surface Treatment: The surface is polished and blackened, with smooth, seamless joints, enhancing corrosion resistance and optimizing the overall appearance.
- Standard Welding Process: Strict control over the welding process ensures strong welds and extends service life.
- High Tensile Strength: Featuring excellent tensile strength, toughness, and hardness, it can withstand high-intensity marine operations.
- Flexible Custom Manufacturing: As a premier studless anchor chain supplier, OLPORTS offer machining and customization services based on international standards. Whether you need specific link sizes or Custom ISO standard studless link anchor chain with unique fittings, we support a wide range of custom configurations to meet your project requirements.
OLIPORTS implements strict production management and quality inspections throughout the entire manufacturing process to ensure that every anchor chain meets offshore engineering standards before leaving the factory.
Common Configurations: Short Link vs. Long Link
Although all studless chains are classified as “open link” chains, they can be further categorized based on the ratio of their pitch (internal length) to diameter ratio. Selecting the correct configuration is critical to ensuring compatibility and strength. OLIPORTS offers a full range of short-link and long-link chains. In addition to standard specifications, we provide customization services to supply anchor chains of any length to meet your specific project requirements.
Short-link chains are the most common configuration in dynamic marine applications. Their internal length (pitch) is typically about 3 times the wire diameter (Pitch ≈ 3*d)
Windlass Compatibility: OLIPORTS supplies high-precision “calibrated” short-link chains to ensure perfect meshing with your windlass wildcat (gypsy), preventing chain skipping or jamming.
High Strength & Durability: With more links per meter, these chains offer exceptional breaking strength. Regardless of the length you require, we ensure consistent quality across every batch.
Standards: DIN 766, ISO 4565, EN 818-2.
Long-link chains feature a larger internal opening (pitch > 3.5*d), offering the advantages of reduced weight and versatility.
Customized Solutions: Whether for floating oil booms or industrial lashing, OLIPORTS can cut and supply long-link chains in specific continuous lengths, thereby reducing the need for additional shackles and connectors.
Cost-Effectiveness: Lighter than short-link chains, they are an economical choice for static mooring systems that do not require winch operation.
Standards: DIN 763 (DIN 5685-1).
| Feature | Short Link Chain | Long Link Chain |
|---|---|---|
| Pitch Ratio | ≈ 3* Diameter | > 3.5* Diameter |
| Length Customization | Available | Available |
| Breaking Load | Higher | Lower |
| Main Advantage | Precise Mechanical Fit | Economy & Weight Saving |
At OLIPORTS, we don’t just supply chains—we provide tailored mooring solutions. Whether you need calibrated short link chains for precise windlass operation or customized long link configurations for specialized offshore projects, our engineers are ready to assist with specific lengths and technical support.
Studless Anchor Chain Specifications
OLIPORTS offers a comprehensive range of studless anchor chain dimensions that meet international maritime standards.
| Chain Diameter (mm) | Grade 2 Proof Load (Kn) | Grade 3 Proof Load (Kn) | Grade 2 Breaking Load (Kn) | Grade 3 Breaking Load (Kn) | Normal Weight (per length of 27.5m ) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12.5 | 41.20 | 56.40 | 82.60 | 112.80 | 85.41 |
| 14 | 51.00 | 70.76 | 101 | 141.51 | 106.55 |
| 26 | 175.40 | 214.00 | 350.80 | 488.00 | 369.94 |
| 30 | 234.20 | 324.90 | 467.5 | 649.80 | 490.98 |
| 34 | 299.90 | 417.30 | 599.80 | 834.60 | 671.52 |
| 38 | 374.40 | 521.30 | 748.70 | 1042.50 | 788.98 |
| 44 | 502.70 | 698.90 | 999.60 | 1398.00 | 1111.25 |
| 52 | 697.63 | 976.14 | 1395.26 | 1952.28 | 1485.61 |
| 60 | 928.80 | 1299.60 | 1857.60 | 2599.20 | 1973.29 |
| 68 | 1192.99 | 1669.26 | 2385.98 | 3338.52 | 2522.88 |
| 70 | 1264.20 | 1768.90 | 2528.40 | 3537.80 | 2697.65 |
Need complete specifications for chain slings, breaking load data, or custom sizes? Contact us today to receive a comprehensive technical manual and expert selection support.
Where Is Studless Anchor Chain Commonly Used?
Typical applications of open link (Studless) chians. Smooth-running anchor chains are widely used in various types of vessels and the offshore engineering industry:
- Vessel anchoring systems
- Offshore mooring platforms
- Floating dock mooring
- FPSO mooring projects
- Port engineering
- Offshore towing operations
OLIPORTS has provided chain-free anchor chain solutions to shipyards, offshore contractors, and engineering firms worldwide. Our products are specifically designed for harsh marine environments and long-term, stable operation.
What Is Difference Between Studless Chain and Stud Link Chain?
| Feature | Studless Chain | Stud Link Chain |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Lighter (≈15-20% less) | Heavier |
| Flexibility | Excellent for tight chain lockers | Good |
| Flexibility | Same grade = same breaking load | Same grade = same breaking load |
| Cost | Lower material & freight cost | Higher weight increases logistics cost |
| Best For | Small-medium vessels, temporary mooring, budget-sensitive projects | Large tankers, permanent offshore mooring, high-abrasion seabeds |
| Structure Type | Open Link (No internal bar) | Bar Link (With transverse stud) |
Not sure which type of chain is right for your project? Based on your vessel’s tonnage, anchor winch torque, expected anchoring cycle, and budget, OLIPORTS will provide an objective compatibility report comparing studless chain and stud link chain to ensure that your procurement decision is well-informed and transparent.
Looking for Anchor Chain for Sale?
Contact OLIPORTS today to get the best factory-direct prices on high-quality mooring chains with links. Our engineers are ready to help you design the perfect marine mooring chain configuration.
Studless Anchor China Frequently Asked Questions
Request a Quote or Drawing
OLIPORTS offer: Technical Datasheet PDF、Material Certificates、DWG or STEP files for design integration、On-request layout support. Our lashing experts typically reply within 24 hours. 💡 Based on your port design, berthing energy, and vessel data, we’ll provide:
⚙️ Recommended drawings & specifications
💬 A tailored quotation with best lead time
📎 Support for class approval documents
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