Question 68 GLI03 - Master-LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is C **Explanation for C (The end links):** The end links (or terminal links) of a ground tackle system are the links that connect the main anchor chain to the anchor shackle or to a bitter end connection. They are most susceptible to fracture for several key reasons: 1. **Stress Concentration:** They are often subject to concentrated bending and shearing forces because they articulate directly with the shackle pins and the anchor body, which are rigid points. 2. **Wear and Corrosion:** They frequently experience higher wear due to repeated movement against the metal of the anchor shackle. Furthermore, they may be the first part of the chain to be exposed to corrosive mud, sand, or turbulent water during anchoring and retrieval operations. 3. **Design Limitations:** End links sometimes differ slightly in shape or material treatment from the common links in the chain, making them a potential weak point in the system, even if they are technically rated for the same breaking strength. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** **A) The anchor shank:** While the shank is under high tension and bending loads, it is generally forged or cast as a solid, robust piece of metal designed to withstand these forces. Fractures here are less common than in the articulating links. **B) The swivel:** Swivels are specifically designed to handle torsional loads and are often over-engineered for strength. While they can fail, fractures are more frequently observed in the high-wear, high-stress metal-on-metal contact points like the links connecting the swivel to the rest of the gear. **D) The flukes:** The flukes (the parts that dig into the seabed) are designed primarily to provide holding power. While they are subjected to significant pressure, they are typically massive and designed for compression and shear forces. Fractures are rare unless the anchor strikes a hard underwater object (like a rock or wreck) with extreme force.