Anchoring Systems Glossary
The Muir Marine Glossary is your guide to key terms used in anchoring, windlass, and deck equipment systems. Whether you’re installing a new windlass, reading a technical manual, or learning more about anchoring technology, this glossary explains essential concepts in clear, practical language. From AMPS to Workload, each term helps you better understand the components, performance, and operation of Muir’s world-leading anchoring systems
- AMPS (Workload)
- The current draw of the motor when operating at full working load.
- Anchor Rode
- The line that secures the anchor to the vessel. It may consist of rope, chain, or a combination of both.
- Automatic Free Fall
- A system that releases the windlass clutch automatically via a remote switch, allowing rapid anchor deployment without manual input.
- Bridle
- Also known as a chain stopper, chain compressor, or devil’s claw. Located between the winch and bow roller, the bridle secures the chain and transfers load away from the windlass.
- Capstan
- Also referred to as a rope drum. A rotating drum used for hauling rope on board.
- Displacement
- The total weight of water displaced by a floating vessel, typically measured in tonnes.
- Fixed Drive
- A direct mechanical coupling from the transmission to the gypsy or capstan.
- Free Fall
- Manual release of the clutch allowing the chain to drop freely under its own weight.
- Gypsy
- Also called a chain wheel, wildcat, or chain gypsy. A wheel with pockets designed to grip the chain and/or rope for hauling the anchor and rode.
- Hauling
- The operation of lifting or retrieving the anchor, rope, or chain; also referred to as weighing.
- Hawser
- The chain pipe through which the anchor rode passes into the chain locker.
- Horizontal Windlass/Winch
- A windlass configuration in which the drive shaft, capstan, and gypsy are mounted horizontally to the deck.
- Inline Drive
- A compact, efficient system integrating the gearbox and motor in a straight-line configuration.
- Manual Operation System (MOS)
- A manual system in which a handle fits directly into the gypsy after removing the capstan or clutch top.
- Manual Override System (MORS)
- A manual system allowing operation by inserting a handle into the windlass top to override the transmission and ratchet drive. Limited powered assistance can still be used.
- Maximum Load
- The highest load the windlass can safely operate under. Normal working conditions should not approach this limit.
- Maximum Line Speed
- The fastest speed at which the anchor rode can be retrieved.
- Ratchet Drive
- An indirect drive system coupling the transmission to the gypsy or capstan through a ratchet cone, allowing both powered and manual operation with partial power assistance.
- RCMS (Rope Chain Management System)
- A system that manages the transition and storage of rope and chain during anchor retrieval.
- Vertical Windlass/Winch
- A windlass configuration where the drive shaft, capstan, and gypsy are positioned vertically through the deck.
- Workload
- The typical lifting load during normal operation, usually around 25% of the maximum load rating.
