Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-04-11 Origin: Site
In the realm of maritime operations, chocks play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and stability of vessels during mooring. These fittings guide mooring lines, distributing loads and preventing undue stress on both the vessel and the dock. Among the various types of mooring chocks, the Panama chock and the closed chock are commonly used, each serving specific purposes based on design and application.
This article delves into the distinctions between these two types of chocks, exploring their design, functionality, applications, and compliance with international standards.
Mooring chocks are robust fittings installed on a ship's deck or bulwark, designed to guide mooring lines and protect them from abrasion. Typically made from cast steel, these chocks ensure that the lines maintain their integrity under various environmental conditions and loads.
The Panama chock is specifically designed for vessels transiting the Panama Canal, combining the security of a closed chock with a larger aperture to accommodate thicker mooring lines. Its robust construction ensures durability under heavy loads.
Design: Enclosed structure with a larger opening to accommodate thicker mooring lines.
Material: Typically made from cast steel, ensuring strength and durability.
Application: Commonly used on vessels that transit the Panama Canal, where specific mooring requirements are mandated.
The Panama chock adheres to standards such as ISO 23116:2020, which specifies the types, nominal sizes, dimensions, and materials for seats for Panama chocks installed to lead the mooring and towing rope of a ship .
The closed chock features a fully enclosed design, offering enhanced security by preventing lines from slipping out. This design is particularly beneficial in rough sea conditions where maintaining line position is critical.
Design: Fully enclosed structure that prevents mooring lines from slipping out.
Material: Constructed from high-quality cast steel, providing strength and resistance to corrosion.
Application: Suitable for various vessels, especially in conditions where line security is paramount.
The closed chock complies with standards such as ISO 13729, which outlines specifications for deck-mounted and bulwark-mounted closed chocks used for guiding mooring lines .
| Feature | Panama Chock | Closed Chock |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Enclosed with larger opening | Fully enclosed |
| Material | Cast steel | Cast steel |
| Application | Vessels transiting Panama Canal | Various vessels requiring secure mooring |
| Compliance | ISO 23116:2020 | ISO 13729 |
| Line Accommodation | Thicker mooring lines | Standard mooring lines |
| Installation | Deck or bulwark-mounted | Deck or bulwark-mounted |
Both the Panama chock and the closed chock serve crucial roles in maritime mooring operations. The choice between the two depends on specific vessel requirements, operational conditions, and compliance with international standards. Understanding the distinctions between these chocks ensures optimal mooring practices, enhancing the safety and efficiency of maritime operations.
