Electric windlass

Choosing an Electric Windlass: A Crucial Decision for Safe and Easy Anchoring

An electric windlass is essential for a boat's anchoring system, ensuring both safety and ease of use. It allows you to drop and retrieve the anchor quickly, simply, and reliably. The system consists of an electric motor that drives a shaft, onto which a gypsy (barbotin) is mounted to manage the anchor chain.

This guide will help you choose the right windlass for your vessel.

TYPES OF WINDLASSES: HORIZONTAL OR VERTICAL?

The main difference between a horizontal and a vertical windlass lies in the orientation of the gypsy's rotation axis. Here are the advantages and key considerations for each:

Vertical Windlasses

• Installation & Use: More commonly used, they offer better pulling power and optimal chain grip with a 180° contact around the gypsy.

• Space Requirement: Requires space below deck for the motor gearbox, keeping the deck less cluttered.

Advantages:
✔ More discreet on deck
✔ 180° chain wrap for better grip
✔ Waterproof protection (IP67 on some models, like the X1)
✔ Anodized aluminum gearbox for corrosion resistance

Important Note: The bow roller axis should be positioned 5° higher than the chain exit point from the gypsy.

Horizontal Windlasses

• Installation: Easier to install since the entire mechanism sits on deck.

• Space Requirement: Ideal for boats with limited anchor locker space.

Advantages:
✔ Can be fully enclosed within the anchor locker
✔ Easier to maintain as all components are accessible on deck
✔ Perfect for small anchor lockers

Important Note: The gypsy’s highest point should be positioned at least 5 to 10° above the bow roller axis for proper chain alignment.

The Gypsy (Barbotin)

The gypsy is a crucial component that secures and guides the anchor chain. For optimal performance, ensure that the distance between the top of the chain pile and the underside of the deck is at least 30 cm.

CALCULATING THE REQUIRED POWER

The windlass power must match the total weight of the anchoring system (anchor + chain).

Chain Weight per Meter:

• 6 mm: 0.9 kg/m

• 8 mm: 1.45 kg/m

• 10 mm: 2.35 kg/m

Formula:
(Total weight of anchor + chain) × 4 = Required windlass power (W)

MAXIMUM INSTANTANEOUS PULLING FORCE

This represents the peak load the windlass must handle when breaking the anchor free from the seabed. Ensure the maximum pulling force is significantly higher than the working load to prevent system failure.

ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

• Windlass Remote Controls: Offer more flexible operation

• Foot Switches: Enable hands-free control

• Material & Durability: Opt for corrosion-resistant models with a sturdy structure

WINDLASS POWER CONSUMPTION

Normal operation:
Windlass power consumption varies based on motor power and load. On average, medium-sized windlasses draw 30-70A under normal use.

Peak consumption during anchor retrieval:
When lifting a deeply embedded anchor, the current draw can spike to 100A or more, depending on the model and seabed conditions (mud, compact sand, etc.).

CABLE SIZING & ELECTRICAL SAFETY

Proper cable sizing is critical to handle high current loads safely:

Circuit Protection:

• A fuse or circuit breaker prevents overcurrent damage.

• A 150A breaker is typically used for windlasses with peak consumption around 100A.

• The fuse should be installed close to the battery for optimal protection.

BOAT DISPLACEMENT & WINDLASS POWER REQUIREMENTS

A boat’s light displacement (weight without crew, fuel, or provisions) affects the windlass power selection.