Anchor chain Grade 43

steelgalvanizedhot-dip galvanised steel

Introduction
Grade 43 Welded Steel Chain supplied on a full drum is a medium-strength, general-purpose industrial chain manufactured from low-carbon structural steel and protected by hot-dip galvanizing. The full-drum format enables high-volume dispensing for continuous operations, reduces handling frequency and improves logistics for distributors and industrial users.

Material Composition and Metallurgical Behavior
Manufactured from low carbon structural steel (e.g. Q235B) with a microstructure of ferrite and pearlite to provide ductility and resistance to brittle fracture. Chemical controls limit phosphorus and sulfur to preserve toughness and weld quality. No alloying elements (Cr, Ni, Mo) are present, consistent with Grade 43 welded chain specifications.

Hot-Dip Galvanizing Process and Corrosion Protection
Chains are coated by immersion in molten zinc (~450°C) creating zinc-iron alloy layers that deliver both barrier and cathodic protection. Typical coating thickness ranges from 70–100 μm depending on size, providing extended corrosion protection in marine, agricultural and outdoor construction environments. The zinc layer also increases surface hardness, improving wear resistance.

Mechanical Properties and Load Performance
Mechanical characteristics comply with ASTM A391 and NACM Grade 43 requirements. Minimum breaking strength, proof load and elongation are controlled and verified by testing. Typical design safety factors are in the 3:1 to 4:1 range for general-purpose use. Elongation under load offers visible deformation prior to failure to reduce the risk of sudden brittle fracture under dynamic conditions.

Full Drum Packaging System
Full drum packaging stores chain compactly to reduce tangling and transport damage, protects the galvanized coating, and is optimized for forklift handling and automated dispensing. This format supports high-volume users by minimizing manual handling and downtime.

Typical Applications

• Cargo lashing and load restraint for transport and logistics
• Marine anchoring and mooring where corrosion resistance is required
• Agricultural machinery securing and farm operations
• General-purpose binding and temporary securing in construction and infrastructure

Standards
Manufactured and tested to recognized standards including ASTM A391 (Grade 43), NACM welded steel chain specifications, ISO 3077 (dimensions and tolerances), ISO 1461 (hot-dip galvanizing) and ASME B30.9 (sling safety provisions). Note: Grade 43 chains are not intended for overhead lifting per ASME B30.9.

Testing and Inspection Procedures
Quality control includes 100% proof load testing during manufacture, sample break testing, coating thickness measurement per ISO 1461, visual inspection and non‑destructive testing to detect weld or surface defects. Inspection certificates document chemical composition, mechanical properties and coating specifications for traceability.

Technical Specifications
Nominal Size (in) | Pitch (mm) | Inside Width (mm) | Wire Diameter (mm) | Weight (kg/100m) | Working Load Limit (kg) | Proof Load (kN) | Breaking Force (kN) | Coating Thickness (μm)
1/4 | 19.0 | 8.5 | 6.3 | 90 | 1180 | 23.1 | 46.2 | 70–85
5/16 | 22.0 | 10.5 | 7.9 | 140 | 1900 | 37.2 | 74.4 | 75–90
3/8 | 26.0 | 12.0 | 9.5 | 190 | 2650 | 52.0 | 104.0 | 80–95
1/2 | 32.0 | 15.0 | 12.7 | 330 | 4500 | 88.2 | 176.4 | 85–100

Dimensional Accuracy and Tolerance Control
Dimensions (pitch, link geometry and tolerances) are controlled per ISO 3077 to ensure uniform load distribution and to prevent local stress concentration.

Load Calculation and Safety Factors
Working Load Limits are derived from minimum breaking force divided by industry safety factors in accordance with ASTM/NACM practices. Proof and breaking tests are used to verify manufacturing integrity for safety calculations.

Certification and Quality Assurance
Product is supplied with inspection certificates providing full traceability from raw material to finished chain, including chemical analysis, mechanical test results and coating measurements.