1. There is no one standard covering all winch applications. Some specialised ones exist covering items such as anchor windlasses or towing winches, and there are some more general guidelines for wire rope systems. North Sea Winches can select the most appropriate standard, just tell us what you want to use the winch for.
2. It is common to specify a winch performance as x tonnes at y metres/minute. This will only be appropriate where the rope stays in a single layer. As the rope builds up on subsequent layers, the pull will decrease and the speed will increase. Does your specification refer to first layer, mid-drum or full drum?
3. What length of rope is to be stored on the drum?
4. Have you selected a rope size and material? If so tell us, otherwise we should be able to advise with the information above
5. A capstan diameter can be related to the rope size used. What size and material is the rope?
6. Anchor windlasses need the chain size and material grade to be specified. If you do not have this information, first have a naval architect calculate what is needed for your ship.
7. Do you require controls for the winch?
8. PLEASE TALK TO US.

Winch applications are many and varied and we can quickly guide you to a sensible specification.