Gripar till grävmaskiner – hantering, rivning och sortering med hydraulisk gripklo
What is a grapple?
A grapple is a hydraulically powered gripping tool that is mounted on the excavator's arm and can grip, lift, sort, and move materials with precision – everything from demolition material and scrap to logs and stones.
Types of grapples
- Demolition grapple – Heavy-duty clamps for concrete, reinforced steel, and demolition material. Often 4–5 fingers.
- Timber and log grapple – Narrower basket design for round logs and timber.
- Sorting grapple (Orange Peel Grapple) – 3–5 symmetrical fingers for sorting mixed scrap and waste.
Rotating vs. non-rotating grapple
- Non-rotating – Simpler construction, lower weight, and cost. Suitable for simple lifts.
- Rotating (360° hydraulic rotation) – Can rotate the load freely. Increases productivity by an estimated 25–40% in demolition and sorting.
Applications
- Demolition projects – Handling concrete, steel, timber
- Scrap and recycling industry – Sorting and loading metal scrap
- Forestry – Handling logs, forest waste (GROT), loading firewood
- Stone work – Handling natural stone and curbs
Choosing the right grapple
- Machine weight – Clamping force and weight are matched to the machine's capacity.
- Material – Demolition scrap: robust demolition grapple; round logs: timber grapple.
- Rotation – Do you need precision placement? Choose a rotating grapple.
- Hydraulic circuits – A rotating grapple requires an extra hydraulic circuit.
Frequently asked questions
How much weight can a grapple lift?
A medium grapple (8–20 ton machine) has a clamping force of 5,000–20,000 N and can handle 500 kg–3 tons.
Can I demolish reinforced concrete with a grapple?
Yes, but requires a demolition grapple with extra strong fingers. Check specified clamping force.
Does a rotating grapple need an extra hydraulic circuit?
Yes – at least three separate hydraulic circuits are required: opening/closing and rotation.
How do I maintain a grapple?
Check hydraulic hoses, finger wear, and lubrication of the joint system. Recommended: every 50 operating hours.