What is a grab in bulk handling?
A grab is a crane attachment — specialised port equipment used to pick up, move and discharge loose bulk materials such as coal, grain, sand, scrap and ores at port terminals and industrial sites. Without a grab, a standard crane hook cannot handle unpackaged bulk cargo.
Types of crane grabs
- Clamshell grab: two hinged shells that close around the material. The most widely used grab type for grain, sand and coal on mobile harbour cranes.
- Orange peel grab: multiple curved tines closing inward — suited for scrap, timber and irregular bulk.
- Double rope grab: operated by two wire ropes on the crane; common on MHC and shiploader applications. No external power supply required.
- Electro-hydraulic grab: self-powered via onboard hydraulics. Runs on a single hoist rope and delivers consistent closing force regardless of crane type.
- Radio remote control (RRC) grab: electro-hydraulic grab operated wirelessly — enables unmanned or semi-automated bulk handling cycles.
How to select the right grab
Grab selection depends on the crane's hoisting configuration (single rope, double rope or hydraulic supply), the material type and density, the required cycle speed, and available power supply at the terminal. Buyers of used grabs should verify shell wear, pivot pins and the hydraulic or rope system condition before purchase.
Leading manufacturers
- Nemag — Dutch manufacturer; market leader for double rope grabs used on MHCs worldwide.
- Verstegen — specialised in electro-hydraulic and RRC grabs for port bulk operations.
- Guven Grab — Turkish manufacturer; strong in clamshell and orange peel grabs for emerging markets.
- Kardesler — Turkish manufacturer; competitive pricing, wide range of grab types.
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