• Feb 06, 2025
• News

Types of Grabs Used in Cranes

The many different types of crane grabs available enable cranes to handle a wide range of materials - from loose aggregates to heavy scrap metal.

Crane grabs are attachments for handling a wide range of materials in the mining, construction, harbor, and scrapyard industries. There are many types of grabs, which need to be selected according to the type of material, and the right grabs can improve the efficiency and safety of the operation. This article mainly introduces the commonly used grabs in cranes.

The Role of Crane Grabs in Material Handling

A crane grabber is a mechanical device attached to a crane's hoist system, designed to securely grasp, lift, and release materials. These tools enhance operational efficiency by reducing manual labor and minimizing material spillage. According to a 2022 report by the International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology, properly configured grabs can improve loading/unloading speeds by up to 35% in port operations.

Classification of Grab Buckets

Grab buckets can be categorized based on their structure and operating mechanism:

1. Structural Design:

   • Clamshell Grab Bucket: Comprises two complete buckets that open and close to grasp materials.
   • Orange Peel Grab Bucket: Features three or more jaws, resembling orange peel segments, suitable for irregularly shaped materials.

2. Operating Mechanism:

   • Mechanical Grab: Operated using the crane's mechanical system, often employing double or four-rope configurations.
   • Hydraulic Grab: Utilizes hydraulic systems, either electro-hydraulic or diesel-hydraulic, for operation.

Common Types of Crane Grabs

Grabs are categorized based on their design, actuation method, and material compatibility. Below, we analyze the most common types, including the clamshell grab bucket, mechanical bucket, and specialized cargo grab systems.

1. Clamshell Grab Bucket

The clamshell grab bucket is a versatile tool consisting of two hinged shells that open and close via cables or hydraulic actuators. Its design resembles a clamshell, enabling it to scoop loose materials like sand, gravel, or coal.

• Applications: Ideal for bulk material handling in ports, construction sites, and recycling facilities.

• Mechanism: Operated via a wire rope system; some models use hydraulic cylinders for precision control.

• Materials: Shells are typically made from abrasion-resistant steel (AR400 or Hardox 450) to withstand wear.

A study by the European Journal of Operational Research (2021) found that clamshell grabs achieve 85–90% fill efficiency in dry bulk cargo operations, reducing cycle times compared to manual methods.

2. Mechanical Bucket Grab

The mechanical bucket, or grab bucket, is a rigid, open-container design with a fixed bottom. It is often used in conjunction with a grab bucket crane for handling cohesive materials like clay or wet sand.

• Applications: Excavation, dredging, and handling sticky or compacted materials.

• Design: Reinforced edges and teeth for penetrating dense materials; some models include hydraulic breakers for fracturing hard surfaces.

• Standards: Complies with ISO 7546:2020 for lifting attachments, ensuring load stability.

3. Orange Peel Grab

Named for its multi-segment design resembling an orange peel, this grab features three to six hinged petals that close symmetrically. It is optimized for irregularly shaped or bulky items.

• Applications: Scrap metal handling, demolition waste, and large-rock lifting.

• Advantages: Uniform pressure distribution minimizes material deformation.

• Materials: High-tensile steel (e.g., ASTM A572) with optional rubber lining for fragile loads.

4. Electromagnetic Grab

Electromagnetic grabs use electrically charged plates to lift ferrous materials, such as steel coils or machinery parts. They are often paired with cargo grab systems in steel mills or automotive factories.

• Power Requirements: Typically require 220–480V DC power sources.

• Safety: Automatic shutoff mechanisms prevent accidental drops during power failures.

• Limitations: Unsuitable for non-metallic materials; efficiency decreases with material thickness below 5mm.

5. Fork Grab

Fork grabs, resembling large forklift tines, are designed for palletized or stacked goods. They integrate with crane grabber systems in warehouses and logistics hubs.

• Load Capacity: Ranges from 1 to 20 tons, depending on tine length and material (typically Grade 80 steel chain).

• Features: Adjustable tine spacing to accommodate varying pallet sizes.

6. Electro-Hydraulic Clamshell Grab Bucket

This grab bucket integrates an internal hydraulic system, eliminating the need for external ropes or pulleys. It is preferred for precise and controlled material handling.

• Applications: Frequently used in ship unloaders, steel plants, and industrial processing units for coal, fertilizer, and grain.
• Power System: Operates using 8.5–55 kW motors, depending on bucket volume.
• Corrosion Resistance: Treated with anti-corrosion coatings for extended service life in marine environments.
• Advantages: Provides smoother operation than traditional rope-driven models, reducing material spillage.

7. Timber Grab Bucket

The timber grab bucket is designed specifically for handling logs and bundled wood, offering a secure grip during transport.

• Applications: Forestry yards, sawmills, and ports handling logs of various sizes.
• Design: Available in single-arm and multi-arm configurations for different log diameters.
• Load Capacity: Supports logs ranging from 700 mm to 2200 mm in diameter.
• Efficiency: A 2020 report by the Global Forestry Equipment Association found that timber grabs reduce log damage by 20% compared to traditional lifting hooks.

8. Underwater Dredging Grab Bucket

Designed for deep-sea and riverbed excavation, this grab bucket is optimized for underwater material handling.

• Applications: Used in marine construction, dredging, and underwater excavation projects.
• Features: Equipped with corrosion-resistant steel and reinforced seals for prolonged submersion.
• Capacity: Ranges from 1.0 to 20.0 cubic meters, depending on dredging depth.
• Industry Use: Frequently employed in government-funded dredging projects to maintain navigable waterways.

Technical Specifications and Selection Criteria

Choosing the right grab requires evaluating material properties, operational environment, and crane compatibility. Key factors include:

Material Characteristics

• Density: Light materials like grain may require lightweight aluminum grabs, while dense scrap metal demands high-strength steel.

• Abrasiveness: Abrasive materials (e.g., gravel) necessitate Hardox-lined buckets.

• Cohesiveness: Sticky substances like sludge may require vibratory grabs to prevent adhesion.

Actuation Method

• Hydraulic Grabs: Offer precise control for delicate operations but require hydraulic power packs.

• Electric Grabs: Low maintenance but limited to environments with stable power supply.

• Rope-Operated Grabs: Cost-effective for general-purpose use but less precise.

Regulatory Compliance

• ISO 17096:2015: Specifies safety requirements for lifting attachments.

• OSHA 1926.1431: Mandates regular inspections of crane grabs in the U.S., including checks for structural cracks and wear.

A 2023 analysis by Lifting Equipment Engineers Association revealed that 27% of crane accidents involving grabs stemmed from improper selection or maintenance.

Maintenance and Operational Best Practices

1. Routine Inspections:

   • Check for wear on hinges, hydraulic lines, and structural welds.

   • Lubricate moving parts with lithium-based grease to prevent corrosion.

2. Load Testing:

   Conduct annual load tests at 125% of rated capacity to verify integrity.

3. Environmental Adaptations:

   Use stainless steel components in marine environments to resist saltwater corrosion.

A case study by Port Technology International (2022) demonstrated that a terminal in Rotterdam reduced grab-related downtime by 18% after implementing predictive maintenance protocols.

Industry Applications of Crane Grabs

Ports and Shipping

• Cargo grabs handle containers, bulk cereals, and liquid tanks.

• Electromagnetic grabs are used for steel coil loading/unloading.

  Construction

  Mechanical buckets excavate foundations, while clamshells manage backfill.

Recycling

Orange peel grabs sort and lift mixed scrap, improving sorting efficiency by 40% (World Steel Association, 2021).

Conclusion

There are many types of crane grab, whether your material is bulk or fragile cargo, choosing the right grab can help improve work efficiency and reduce cargo loss. If you need a customized solution or you are not clear about which type of grab to choose, you can always contact Yuantai for consultation.