Clamshell grab and orange peel grabs are the two most widely used types of grabs. Their designs and operating principles differ significantly, making them suitable for different materials and applications.
Clamshell grab
Open and close like a shell, relying primarily on the closing of the jaws to dig and grab materials. The action is "grabbing."
Common Applications of Clamshell Grabs
1. Bulk cargo loading and unloading at ports and docks.
2. Coal yards at thermal power plants.
3. Grain silos.
Orange peel grabs
Like the peel of an orange, multiple lobes (usually 6-8) wrap downward and close together to grab materials. The action is "wrapping."
Common Applications of Orange Peel Grabs
1. Scrap recycling yards.
2. Demolition sites.
3. Waste disposal centers.
4. Grabbing logs.
How to choose between a clamshell grab and an orange peel grab?
1. For efficient loading and unloading of standard bulk cargoes such as coal, sand, and grain, a clamshell grab is the preferred choice, offering high efficiency and low cost.
2. For handling scrap metal, construction debris, and large rocks, an orange peel grab is the only option, offering irreplaceable containment.
3. For handling powdered materials prone to dust and spillage, such as cement and fly ash, an orange peel grab with its superior sealing properties is more suitable.
