The anchor chain is a key component that connects the anchor to the hull of a ship, used to transmit and buffer the external forces exerted on the vessel. It is assembled from multiple links through connecting links or shackles, and is mainly divided into gated links and non-gated links. Gated links have high strength, small deformation, and good stacking stability, and are widely used in ocean-going ships; non-gated links are mostly used in small vessels. The manufacturing process includes casting, welding, and forging. Currently, welding is the main method, while forging is less used. The material selection directly affects the strength and applicability of the anchor chain. The steel for gated anchor chains is divided into three grades: AM1, AM2, and AM3: AM1 is a quenched steel, suitable for specific scenarios; AM2 and AM3 undergo quenching and fine-grain treatment, have higher strength, and are suitable for large ships. The link types include ordinary links, enlarged links, rotating rings, and link-end shackles, and their design focuses on the connection method and direction to ensure the stability and durability of the vessel. 

To facilitate identification and operation, the anchor chains are marked with colors. White paint and red paint are used to distinguish different links on the connected links and adjacent chain links. The specific marking method is as follows: Before and after the first chain link with a guard on each link interval, a metal wire (or white steel ring) is wound, and then the links with guards are painted white, the connected links are painted red, and so on.

The number of chain links in each section of the anchor chain is generally an odd number to ensure that the Kent cleat can be stably inserted into the transverse slot. The Kent cleat is large in size and can only be placed in the transverse slot due to the 90° vertical connection between the chain links. Therefore, it is divided equally between the port and starboard sides when the total length is divided by 27.5 meters. If it is an even number, one additional section is usually added on the starboard side to meet the operational requirements when docking and improve maneuverability and stability. 

Installation must ensure smooth connection. Appropriate shackles and fastening devices should be used, and the design ratio should be strictly followed to avoid potential safety hazards. Taking an 82,000 DWT bulk carrier as an example, its anchor chain has a diameter of φ81mm and a total of 25 sections, with 12 sections on the port side and 13 sections on the starboard side. This configuration is conducive to adapting to the right-side berthing habit and ensuring the safety and stability of the vessel.

The anchor chain is fixed to the hull through a series of connection components, and the end is smoothly connected to the hull structure via shackles. It plays a crucial role during navigation and anchoring. 

During anchor chain operation, attention should be paid to the installation of shackles and the stability of marking. The Kent shackles, due to their vertically connected links, must ensure that they are securely embedded in the transverse slot.

To meet the requirements of different port operations, the maneuverability and stability can be improved by adding specific side chain sections, ensuring that the vessel can safely enter the right-side water area and guaranteeing overall safety.