Anchor Swing Circle Calculator

Swing Radius Formula:

\[ \text{Swing Radius} = \sqrt{\text{Rode Length}^2 - \text{Water Depth}^2} \]

Swing Radius:

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1. What is the Anchor Swing Circle Calculator?

The Anchor Swing Circle Calculator determines the radius of the circular area a boat will swing around its anchor point. This calculation is essential for safe anchoring and ensuring adequate space between vessels.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Pythagorean theorem:

\[ \text{Swing Radius} = \sqrt{\text{Rode Length}^2 - \text{Water Depth}^2} \]

Where:

\( \text{Rode Length} \) — Total length of anchor rode deployed (meters)
\( \text{Water Depth} \) — Depth from water surface to seabed (meters)
\( \text{Swing Radius} \) — Radius of the circular swing area (meters)

Explanation: The formula calculates the horizontal distance from the anchor point to the boat, forming the radius of the swing circle.

3. Importance of Swing Radius Calculation

Details: Knowing the swing radius helps boaters determine safe anchoring distances from other vessels, obstacles, and navigation channels. It prevents collisions and ensures proper scope for anchor holding.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter rode length and water depth in meters. Rode length must be greater than water depth. Typical scope ratios are 5:1 to 7:1 (rode length to water depth).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is anchor scope and why is it important?
A: Anchor scope is the ratio of rode length to water depth. Proper scope (typically 5:1 to 7:1) ensures the anchor pulls horizontally for maximum holding power.

Q2: How does tide affect swing radius?
A: Changing tides affect water depth, which changes the swing radius. Always calculate for both high and low tide conditions.

Q3: What factors can affect actual swing circle?
A: Current, wind, wave action, boat type, and anchor type can all influence the actual swing pattern, which may not be a perfect circle.

Q4: How much clearance should I allow?
A: Allow at least 2-3 times the calculated swing radius between your boat and obstacles or other vessels to account for variables.

Q5: Does chain vs rope rode affect calculation?
A: The basic calculation remains the same, but chain provides better catenary effect and may allow for slightly less scope in some conditions.