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A scrap metal grab is an attachment that can grasp and lift scrap metal. Normally, it is fixed to a hydraulic machine. Hydraulic grabs for scrap metals can be widely used in recycling stations, steel factories, and ports. There are some common types of scrap metal grabs as follows:
Hydraulic clams
Hydraulic clams are designed to handle various types of metals, including ferrous and non-ferrous materials. They have a robust gripping mechanism that ensures a secure hold on scrap metal. Hydraulic clams are commonly used in recycling facilities, scrapyards, and demolition sites where handling different types of scrap metal simultaneously is required.
Rotation hydraulic grabs
Rotation hydraulic grabs are equipped with a rotating function that allows for precise maneuvering of the grabbed material. This rotation is typically powered by hydraulic fluid and facilitated through a rotating joint or slew gear. Furthermore, they are multifunctional attachments widely used in recycling metal, construction, and forestry industries.
Twin-ring hydraulic grabs
Twin-ring hydraulic grabs use two parallel rings to grasp the material, providing a secure grip. They are suited for handling large and heavy scrap metal, such as pipes, beams, and plates. Besides, they are also commonly used in mining and construction for handling bulky materials.
Fixed jaw hydraulic grabs
They have a unique design with a small jaw opening fixed, which allows them to pick up scrap metal precisely. These grabs can be mounted on excavators or hydraulic loaders, making them extremely versatile.
Specifications of a scrap grabber will vary depending on the type and size. The most common types of grabs are hydraulic grabs that are used with excavators and wheel loaders with varying lifting capacities. A hydraulic scrap metal grab of 1 to 1.5m can have a net weight of about 1,500 to 2,500 kg. The smaller the size, the less the net weight will be, while bigger grabs, such as 3 to 4m, will be heavier with more capacity.
The operating pressure of a hydraulic metal grab will usually range between 18 and 25 Mpa, and the flow rate will be approximately 60 to 90 L/min. The temperature range the grab can work within is between -20°C and 80°C. It has two primary functions – a lift and a rotation function with a speed of up to 3rpm. The power source is mainly from the hydraulic system of the excavator or loader, or it may have an independent hydraulic power unit.
The main parts of the hydraulic grab are the cylinder, the shells, the linkage mechanism, the rotating device, and the hydraulic power unit. The cylinders have scrap metal shells with teeth or blades that cut through metal items. When the hydraulic unit powers the cylinder, it opens and closes the shells to clamp or release the scrap metal.
A mechanical scrap grabber works on a similar principle with steel, aluminum, plastic, or rubber cables operating the moving parts. Special steel cables are used to move the operating parts of the gripper. The cables are attached to pulleys and powered by the machinery's motor. Mechanical grabs are suitable for large facilities with minimal noise and environmental concerns.
A clamshell scrap grab works differently by opening from the bottom upward, like a clam. It consists of two halves connected to a linkage system. The linkage system is connected to an excavator or crane to power it. The clam opens and closes to scoop scrap metal, mainly from the ground or to fill containers.
A walk-through metal scrap grab consists of parallel blades that move in a scissor-like motion. It is often operated by hydraulic power and is used to deal with scrap metal efficiently from a yard. The grab can fit easily between scrap items and cut through them to lift and load them.
Maintenance
To maintain grab loaders, one must regularly check the bolts and nuts to ensure they are tightly fastened. Any loose parts must be attended to immediately by replacing or fastening them. Damaged parts must be replaced as soon as possible to avoid operational hazards. Hydraulic hoses and cables must be checked and inspected for any damage, leaks, or abrasion. Regular servicing of the machinery is essential to maintaining its performance and extending its life. Operating instructions must be followed precisely to avoid misuse or any handling that is not recommended.
In the recycling industry, loading and unloading scraps in a recycling plant is a common application. A hydraulic grab will pick up and sort various types of metals. The versatility of grabs is mainly due to their attachment and the different types of metal. A scrap metal grab connected to a crawler excavator is ideal for handling heavy scrap in a yard, factory, or warehouse.
Operations that involve recycling or salvaging old vehicles use hydraulic grabs to remove metal parts from cars. The grab can easily lift car bodies onto a crushing machine. After the metal is separated from the non-metal parts, the metal is placed in a scrap yard with the help of a hydraulic grab.
Sorting scrap metals like aluminum, brass, or copper tubing is another application where small jaw grabs work best. They can easily pick small pieces of metal and prevent contamination of other types of metals. In most cases, sorting grabs have a different colored bucket or jaw to identify them easily.
Hydraulic grabs load scrap metals into containers, shear machine, or furnaces. They unload or load scrap containers in a warehouse, yard, or dock. Sorting of metals is also done before loading them into a container. By far, the most common method of loading scrap metals is by using a grab and container.
A hydraulic grab can also handle crushing parts and discharge conveyor belts. By using a metal grab, the entire process is quick, saving time and labor costs.
Consider the following factors when selecting a scrap metal grab for purchase.
Suitability for Material Type and Size
A scrap metal grab comes in different types to handle various scrap materials. Thus, selecting the most suited grabber for the material type can optimize efficiency during the loading and unloading operation. Additionally, it is essential to choose a scrap metal grab that can easily pick and hold the size and shape of the scrap metal. This ensures good stability and control during operation.
Compatibility with Equipment
Scrap metal grabs have different connection types. Therefore, it is important to select a grab that will properly connect to the existing equipment. This will enhance operational efficiency. Moreover, consider the hydraulic requirements of the scrap metal grab. Ensure the hydraulic system of the demolition or excavator can handle the function of the grab.
Durability and Dependent Quality
Consider the material and build of the scrap metal grab, and ensure it can withstand harsh environments and regular use. The quality of the material used in building the grab can impact its longevity. During purchases, research the supplier to ensure their product line is built to last. A durable, long-lasting scrap metal grab will reduce equipment replacement expenses.
Operational Factors
Consider the handling capacity of the scrap metal grab and ensure its load weight is at the optimum level for the intended operation. Assess the grabbing speed of the metal grab and ensure it can perform at the required speed. Production rates can be affected by a slow-moving scrap metal grab. Also, consider the manipulation control of the metal grab. The level of control a scrap metal grab delivers can affect the overall operational efficiency.
Q1 What are the uses of a metal grab?
A metal grab attachment is commonly used in garbage handling to pick up and transport garbage to disposal points. It is also used in the agricultural sector to harvest crops like sugarcane. Metal grabs can also be used in liquid handling applications to transport liquid-filled containers.
Q2 What are the parts of a grab?
The grab has two main parts: the climber and the cylinder. The cylinder is the part that operates the grab by rotating it through a horizontal movement. The climber moves the grab vertically. Other parts of the grab include the supporting structure, a rope that holds the grab, the bucket, and the teeth.
Q3 What is the working principle of a metal grab?
The metal grab works on a simple principle. It is propelled by hydraulic power that closes the two halves of the grab to pick up objects. The hydraulic system operates with a push-pull mechanism to open and close the grab. Hydraulic grabs function smoothly and easily without any manual assistance.
Q4 How do metal grabs differ from traditional grabs?
Traditional grabs are manually pulled and pushed by the operator to lift materials. Metal grabs are attached to cranes or excavators and can be operated remotely to lift scrap from a distance.
