scope:

Foreword: This is the third edition of the Guide for the Certification of Offshore Mooring Chain, following from the 1986 and 1999 versions.

This new version adds two higher strength grades R4S and R5 (the previous Q identification letter has been dropped) to the existing R3, R3S, and R4 and addresses studded and studless flash butt welded chain, chafing chain, chain accessories, and special subsea connectors.

The Guide includes additional requirements for the qualification of manufacturers, especially with respect to forged and cast accessories, and has defined certain aspects of manufacturing controls more comprehensively.

This Guide supersedes previous versions and ABS encourages its immediate application. Compliance with this edition is required for offshore mooring chain and accessories with a date of purchase order of the materials on or after 1 July 2011.