A strong, metal pipe fitted through the ship's hull, usually in the bow, through which the anchor chain or cable passes. It allows the anchor chain to be guided smoothly and securely from the anchorwindlass to the sea.
Key points about hawsepipe:
Purpose: To protect the ship's hull from damage caused by the heavy anchor chain.
Material: Typically made of steel or cast iron to withstand the immense force exerted by the chain.
Types:
Single Hawsepipe: A single pipe for one anchor chain.
Double Hawsepipe: Two pipes, often angled, for two anchor chains.
Hawsehole: The opening in the ship's hull where the hawsepipe is fitted.
Hawse Fairlead: A device attached to the hawsepipe to guide the chain and reduce friction.
