Standardization News

A new ASTM International standard covers the principal dimensions and materials of closed chocks, used for mooring, for installation on ships. The new standard, F2936 Specification for Chocks, Ship Mooring, Cast Steel, has been developed by Subcommittee F25.01 on Structures, part of ASTM International Committee F25 on Ships and Marine Technology.

Chocks are mounted directly on the deck, on the foundation or in a bulwark of a ship. Chao H. Lin, Office of Safety, Maritime Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation, and F25.01 chairman, notes that chocks are an essential apparatus for tying a vessel to a dock or pier.

"Recently, as ships have grown larger in size, the mooring lines get bigger and stronger," Lin said, "Hence it was necessary to develop a new standard to meet current and potential needs."

Shipboard hardware designers and manufacturers, as well as ship owners and operators, are invited to join F25.01 in the development of future proposed standards related to the material, design, construction, inspection and maintenance of ship structures.

To purchase ASTM standards, visit www.astm.org and search by the standard designation, or contact ASTM Sales (phone: 877-909-ASTM; sales@astm.org).

CONTACT Technical Information: Chao H. Lin, Office of Safety, Maritime Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation • Washington, D.C. • Phone: 202-366-1847 | ASTM Staff: Robert Morgan • Phone: 610-832-9732 | Upcoming Meeting: May 9-10 • May Committee Week • Phoenix, Ariz.