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Mobile Bulk Material Handling Experts
How to Choose the Right Grab for a Material Handler: Clamshell, Orange Peel, or Magnet
Choosing the right grab or lifting attachment for a material handler is just as important as selecting the machine itself. The correct attachment directly impacts handling efficiency, safety, operating cost, and material loss. Among all options, clamshell grabs, orange peel grabs, and magnets are the three most commonly used attachments. Each is designed for very different materials and working conditions.
This article explains how each grab works, where it is best used, and how to choose the right one for your application.
Why Attachment Selection Matters
A poorly matched grab can lead to:
- Low handling rate (TPH)
- Material spillage
- Excessive wear and maintenance
- Safety risks
- Higher fuel and operating costs
The right grab ensures:
- Maximum fill factor
- Stable lifting
- Faster cycle times
- Long service life
1. Clamshell Grab – Best for Bulk Materials
What Is a Clamshell Grab?
A clamshell grab consists of two shells that open and close to scoop and release loose bulk materials. Best Materials:
- Coal
- Grain
- Fertilizer
- Sand & gravel
- Cement clinker
- Iron ore fines
Typical Applications
- Ship loading and unloading
- Rail wagon unloading
- Hopper feeding
- Stockpiling operations
Key Advantages
- High volumetric efficiency
- Clean material release
- Good control for free-flowing materials
- Available in 0.5–6.0+ m³ capacities
- Limitations
- Not suitable for bulky or irregular objects
- Reduced efficiency on scrap or large pieces
2. Orange Peel Grab – Best for Scrap & Irregular Materials
What Is an Orange Peel Grab?
An orange peel grab uses multiple curved tines (usually 4–6) that close around irregular and bulky materials. Best Materials:
- Scrap metal
- Shredded steel
- Industrial waste
- Municipal solid waste (MSW)
- Timber offcuts
Typical Applications
- Scrap yards
- Steel mills
- Recycling plants
- Port scrap handling
Key Advantages
- Excellent grip on irregular shapes
- Strong penetration capability
- High durability for heavy-duty use
- Limitations
- Lower efficiency for fine bulk materials
- Higher wear rate compared to clamshell grabs
3. Magnet – Best for Ferrous Metal Handling
What Is a Material Handler Magnet?
A magnet attachment lifts materials using magnetic force instead of mechanical gripping. It can be electromagnetic or permanent. Best Materials:
- Steel scrap
- Steel plates & billets
- Pipes and profiles
- Rebar and turnings
Typical Applications
- Scrap yards
- Steel plants
- Port metal terminals
Key Advantages
- Extremely fast cycle times
- No moving mechanical parts
- Clean and selective handling of ferrous metals
- Limitations
- Only works on ferrous materials
- Requires power supply (generator or electrical system)
- Reduced efficiency on thin or mixed scrap
Comparison: Clamshell vs Orange Peel vs Magnet
| Criteria | Clamshell Grab | Orange Peel Grab | Magnet |
| Material type | Loose bulk | Irregular / bulky | Ferrous metal |
| Fill factor | Very high | Medium | High (for steel) |
| Cycle speed | Medium | Medium | Very fast |
| Precision | High | Medium | Low |
| Wear rate | Low–medium | High | Low |
| Maintenance | Moderate | High | Low |
How to Choose the Right Grab for Your Material Handler
1. Identify the Material
- This is the most critical factor
- Free-flowing bulk → Clamshell
- Scrap or waste → Orange peel
- Steel only → Magnet
2. Consider Material Density & Size
- Fine, dense bulk → smaller clamshell
- Light, bulky scrap → larger orange peel
- Heavy steel pieces → magnet with high lifting force
3. Match Grab Capacity to Machine Size
| Material Handler Size | Typical Grab Capacity |
| 20–30 t | 0.8 – 1.8 m³ |
| 30–45 t | 1.8 – 3.0 m³ |
| 45–70 t | 2.5 – 4.0 m³ |
| 70 t+ | 3.5 – 6.0+ m³ |
4. Evaluate Working Environment
- Port & rail terminals → high durability, dust protection
- Scrap yards → reinforced tines & wear plates
- Indoor steel plants → electric or dual-power compatibility
5. Productivity & Throughput Requirements
- High TPH bulk handling → clamshell grab
- Fast scrap turnover → magnet
- Mixed material handling → orange peel or quick coupler system
- Mixed Operations: Use Multiple Attachments
Many modern material handlers are equipped with:
- Quick coupler
- Auxiliary hydraulic lines
- Generator sets for magnets
This allows operators to switch between:
- Clamshell + magnet
- Orange peel + hook
- Multiple grab sizes
Common Selection Mistakes to Avoid
- Oversizing the grab (reduces stability & fill factor)
- Using clamshell for scrap metal
- Ignoring material density
- Choosing magnet for mixed scrap
- Not matching hydraulic flow requirements
There is no universal grab for all materials. The right choice depends on:
- Material type
- Material size & density
- Handling capacity requirement
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- E-mail: [email protected]
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