Marine Shark Jaw
Heavy-Duty Shark Jaws for Offshore Anchor Handling
Safe offshore operations require reliable equipment to control heavy anchor chains under high loads. A marine shark jaw is designed to grip and secure anchor chains during anchor handling, towing, and offshore mooring, improving both operational efficiency and crew safety.
NYBON Marine supplies robust shark jaws for anchor handling tug supply vessels (AHTS), offshore support vessels, floating platforms and marine construction projects. Built for demanding environments, our products provide dependable performance where strength and safety matter most.
What Is a Marine Shark Jaw?
A marine shark jaw is a hydraulic or mechanical chain securing device installed on the working deck of an offshore vessel.
It is used to hold anchor chains securely while transferring the load away from the winch or towing equipment, allowing crews to carry out anchor handling and towing operations safely.
Shark jaws are commonly installed together with towing pins and anchor handling winches on:
- Anchor Handling Tug Supply (AHTS) Vessels
- Offshore Support Vessels
- Platform Supply Vessels
- Construction Barges
- Offshore Wind Installation Vessels
Why Shark Jaws Are Essential Offshore
Handling heavy anchor chains in rough seas requires equipment that can maintain control under constant dynamic loading. A well-designed shark jaw helps operators:
- Secure anchor chains safely
- Reduce movement during towing
- Improve deck safety
- Protect winches and towing equipment
- Increase operational efficiency
For offshore projects where precision and reliability are critical, shark jaws have become standard deck equipment.
Working Principle Diagram—Anchor Chain→Shark Jaw→Vessel Deck→Anchor Handling Winch
Relevant Standards
Our shark jaws can be designed to meet project-specific technical requirements and recognized offshore engineering practices. Manufacturing and testing procedures can be carried out in accordance with customer specifications and classification society requirements, helping ensure reliable performance in demanding marine environments.
Types of Marine Shark Jaws
NYBON Marine offers several configurations to meet different vessel layouts and offshore applications.
Hydraulic Shark Jaw
Powered by a hydraulic system for fast and reliable operation.
- Offshore support vessels
- AHTS vessels
- Heavy-duty operations
Mechanical Shark Jaw
A practical solution for projects requiring a simple and robust locking mechanism.
- Tugboats
- Harbor support vessels
- Marine construction
Shark Jaw with Towing Pins
An integrated system combining shark jaws and towing pins to improve line control during anchor handling.
Typical Applications
Anchor Handling Operations
Secures anchor chains while deploying or recovering anchors.
Offshore Oil & Gas
Supports offshore drilling and production platforms.
Offshore Wind Farms
Used during installation and maintenance of floating wind projects.
Marine Towing
Provides secure chain holding during towing and positioning.
Offshore Construction
Suitable for subsea construction, pipeline installation, and heavy lifting vessels.
Advantages of Our Marine Shark Jaws
Designed for demanding offshore conditions.
Key Benefits
- High holding capacity
- Reliable hydraulic operation
- Heavy-duty steel construction
- Stable chain locking
- Corrosion-resistant finish
- OEM customization available
Industry Insights: Improving Safety During Anchor Handling
Anchor handling is one of the most demanding operations performed by offshore vessels. Chains weighing several tons can generate significant dynamic loads due to waves, vessel movement, and changing weather conditions.
A properly designed shark jaw minimizes chain movement and allows the load to be transferred safely to the vessel structure. When used together with towing pins and anchor handling winches, it improves operational control and reduces risks for the deck crew.
For other marine outfittings:
Technical Specifications
| Holding Capacity | 100–800 tons |
|---|---|
| Chain Diameter | 38–120 mm |
| Drive Type | Hydraulic / Mechanical |
| Working Pressure | 210–315 bar |
| Material | High Strength Alloy Steel |
| Surface Finish | Marine Epoxy Coating |
| OEM Service | Available |
Just For Your Trust
How to Choose the Right Shark Jaw
Customized Shark Jaw Solutions
NYBON Marine provides customized shark jaws based on:
- Holding capacity
- Chain diameter
- Hydraulic or mechanical operation
- Mounting dimensions
- Surface treatment
- Customer drawings
We work with shipyards, offshore contractors and marine engineering companies to deliver solutions tailored to each project.
Every shark jaw is manufactured under strict quality management procedures.
Inspection includes:
- Material verification
- Welding inspection
- Precision machining
- Hydraulic function testing
- Load testing
- Final quality inspection
Every unit is inspected before shipment to ensure reliable offshore performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a shark jaw used for?
A shark jaw is used to secure anchor chains during anchor handling, towing, and offshore mooring operations.
What vessels commonly use shark jaws?
They are widely used on AHTS vessels, offshore support vessels, construction barges and other marine engineering vessels.
Can the holding capacity be customized?
Yes. We offer customized holding capacities, chain sizes and hydraulic configurations based on project requirements.
Do you provide integrated shark jaw and towing pin systems?
Yes. Complete integrated systems are available for offshore applications.
Do you support OEM manufacturing?
Yes. We provide OEM manufacturing according to customer drawings and technical specifications.
