<h1>Anchor Windlass</h1>
The anchor windlass is a mechanism that secures and handles the anchor cable of a vessel, due to which it enables the anchor to be hoisted and dropped using chain cable. Anchors are extremely important for vessels, and they perform a significant part in vessel movement; anchors make it easier for a vessel to stay at berth; even if the meteorological conditions are not favourable, the vessel may be kept secure at berth thanks to the anchor. For big vessels, the anchor is similarly enormous, thus a device that can lower and hoist the anchor is required, and a windlass is employed for this. This windlass is generally a mechanism capable of handling absolutely enormous loads; there are multiple segments that are employed in the anchor windlass procedure. These segments guarantee that the anchor windlass method is carried out correctly; if any one segment fails, the entire procedure might be disrupted. This procedure can be done manually, but nowadays mostly the anchor windlass is operated with the help of electrical systems or also with the help of pneumatic systems. The windlass is positioned according to the size and form of the vessel, on certain vessels there is a specific space for the windlass, while the windlass may also be located on the deck, depending on the type and size of the vessel, both locations have some advantages and some drawbacks. Anchor windlasses are classified into two varieties, horizontal and vertical. The horizontal form is referred as a windlass, while the vertical type is referred as a capstan. For optimal usage of anchor windlasses, both forms can be integrated. There are many different segments used in the operation of the anchor windlass, and for a smooth operation, regular maintenance of these segments is required, so precise examination after a specific time interval is necessary, and appropriate care must be taken while operating to ensure less wear and tear of the segments involved. Specific maintenance steps must be followed depending on the position of the windlass; because the vessel must travel in various weather conditions, it is critical that the cable is kept in good condition; additionally, due to insufficient space, the cable can become distorted causing disruption in operation; suitable frameworks should be made to prevent this. Anchor windlass is significantly essential for a vessel; hence a proper windlass system should be used on the vessel to minimize future harm to the vessel.
References:
1. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anchor_windlass
">wikipedia.org</a>
2. <a href="https://www.marineinsight.com/naval-architecture/anchor-windlass-understanding-design-and-operation/
">marineinsight.com</a>
3.<a href="https://www.brighthubengineering.com/seafaring/46295-what-is-a-windlass-on-a-ship/#windlass">brighthubengineering.com</a>