Crane Grab Bucket
With over a decade of specialized experience in manufacturing crane grab buckets, clamshell grabs, and orange peel grabs,
Glory Rail meet bulk material handling needs across a wide range of applications—
including ports, power plants, steel mills, and waste management facilities—and offer customization for A5, A6, and M7 duty classes.
Material: High-strength manganese steel
Working Class: A5/A6/M7
Capacity: 0.5–50 m³
Certifications: CE/ISO/SGS
A crane grab is an automatic material-handling device mounted beneath a crane, widely used in industrial settings such as ports, power plants, and steel mills that require efficient bulk material handling. As a professional manufacturer of crane grab buckets, Glory Rail offers a full range of crane grab types—including mechanical, hydraulic, electric, and remote-controlled models—compatible with various crane grab systems.
Key features of Our Crane Grab
High-Strength Manganese Steel Construction: Key contact components are forged from Q345B/Hardox 450 wear-resistant steel, extending service life by 3 to 5 times compared to standard materials.
Multi-Duty Class Compliance: Designed to meet Working Level / Duty Class (A5, A6, M7) standards, our grab buckets are capable of handling a wide range of applications, from light warehouse operations to heavy-duty port operations.
Customized Capacity & Configuration: Bucket capacities range from 0.5 m³ to 50 m³, and the teeth, side plates, and wire rope systems can be customized to match your specific material characteristics.
Not sure which crane grab bucket configuration meets your duty cycle requirements? Glory Rail’s application engineers can analyze your operating parameters and recommend the best specifications—completely free of charge.
Complete Range of Crane Grab Types
Tailored for Different Materials and Operating Conditions
Different materials and operating environments require different grab configurations. Choosing the right type from the available crane grab options directly impacts your handling efficiency, material retention rate, and total cost of ownership. Below is a complete classification of our industrial-grade grabs.
Clamshell Grab
The clamshell grab is the most widely used variant of the crane grab, featuring two symmetrical, opening and closing jaw plates. It is the standard choice for handling free-flowing bulk materials in ports, grain terminals, and aggregate handling facilities.
Best for: Coal, grain, sand and gravel, fertilizer, mineral powder
Drive options: Mechanical (cable), hydraulic, electric
Not recommended for large, irregularly shaped waste or highly viscous materials
Mechanical Clamshell Grab
The clamshell grab is the most widely used variant of the crane grab, featuring two symmetrical, opening and closing jaw plates. It is the standard choice for handling free-flowing bulk materials in ports, grain terminals, and aggregate handling facilities.
Best for: Coal, grain, sand and gravel, fertilizer, mineral powder
Drive options: Mechanical (cable), hydraulic, electric
Not recommended for large, irregularly shaped waste or highly viscous materials
Orange Peel Grab
The orange-peel-style grab features multiple curved jaw segments (typically 5–8) that close in a petal-like pattern. This design is particularly effective at handling irregularly shaped, high-density, or mixed waste materials that tend to slip out of standard clam-shell-style grabs.
Best for: Scrap metal, solid waste, furnace charge, demolition debris
Special variant: Electro-hydraulic orange peel grabs for waste-to-energy plants — equipped with sealed hydraulic cylinders rated IP68, specifically designed for the corrosive and humid environments of waste-to-energy plants.
Hydraulic Crane Grab
Hydraulic grabs use pressurized fluid to drive the movement of the jaw plates, providing significantly greater gripping force and smoother operation compared to mechanical cable systems. They are the preferred choice when precision, penetration, and sealing are critical requirements.
Best for: Underwater dredging, moist materials, chemical fertilizers, and mixed bulk materials
Key advantage: IP68-sealed hydraulic system, with a circulation speed over 30% faster than mechanical systems
Electric Motor Grab
The grab body is equipped with a built-in electric motor, eliminating the need for complex external cable arrangements. The motor drives the internal mechanism to open and close the jaw plates, providing precise control and making it ideal for lighter bulk materials.
Best for: Grain, rice, feed, food-grade materials, lightweight aggregates
Key advantage: Compatibility with simple single-hook cranes, low maintenance
Scissor Grab Bucket
The scissor grab utilizes a mechanical linkage system and is equipped with two opposing jaw plates that perform a scissor-like motion via a wire rope or chain mechanism. This fully mechanical design requires no hydraulics or electricity and reliably handles uniformly shaped materials.
Best Suited For: Concrete blocks, bricks, curbstones, slabs, packaged materials, and uniformly sized cargo
Key Advantages: Fully mechanical operation (no external power required), adjustable span, automatic locking, and simple maintenance
With so many types of crane grabs available, choosing the wrong specification can lead to reduced efficiency, increased wear and tear, and costly downtime. Our engineers can analyze your material characteristics, crane configuration, and operating frequency to recommend the best type for you.
Crane Grab Parts
A high-performance crane grab consists of multiple precision crane grab parts working in unison. Taking a typical clamshell grab as an example, its main components include: the upper beam (connected to the crane), the lower beam, the jaw plates (which directly grasp the material), the pulley block (which transmits the force of the ropes), the bearings and pins (which enable the jaw plates to rotate), and the sealing system (which prevents dust and moisture from entering).
Description of Materials for Key Components: The jaw plates are made of high-manganese steel (Mn13 or Mn18), which offers high hardness and excellent impact toughness; the support beams are made of Q355B low-alloy structural steel to ensure the overall structural strength; the pins and bushings are made of 40Cr alloy steel and have undergone a tempering treatment, resulting in wear resistance that is more than three times higher.
Maintenance Tip: Regularly inspecting jaw plate wear, pin clearance, and wire rope wear is key to ensuring the long-term, stable operation of your crane grab. Glory Rail offer a full range of genuine crane grab parts and replacement services.
Technical Parameters & Working Level
The following are the key technical specifications for our standard series of crane grabs. All specifications can be customized to suit your specific operating conditions. For applications requiring high-frequency operation, we recommend selecting the A6 or M7 duty class and equipping the crane grab with reinforced parts.
| Parameter | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rated Volume | 0.5 – 20 m³ | Adjustable according to material density |
| Rated Load | 1 – 50 tons | Includes grab self-weight |
| Material Density | 0.8 – 3.0 t/m³ | Determines grab capacity & structural strength |
| Working Level / Duty Class | A5, A6, M7 | According to FEM/ISO standards |
| Operating Temp | -20°C ~ +50°C | Customizable for special environments |
| Motor Power (Electric Type) | 5.5 – 45 kW | Depends on capacity and drive type |
| Hydraulic Pressure | 16 – 25 MPa | For hydraulic type only |
| Closing Time | 6 – 15 sec | Faster for hydraulic models |
Duty Class Explanation
The following are the key technical specifications for our standard series of crane grabs. All specifications can be customized to suit your specific operating conditions. For applications requiring high-frequency operation, we recommend selecting the A6 or M7 duty class and equipping the crane grab with reinforced parts.
| Class | Use Grade | Load Spectrum | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| A5 | T4 (Moderate) | L2 (Medium) | General workshops, warehouses, intermittent operation |
| A6 | T5 (Frequent) | L3 (Heavy) | Ports, power plants, frequent loading & unloading |
| M7 | T6 (Very Frequent) | L3-L4 (Heavy / Extra Heavy) | 24h continuous duty, steel plants, mines |
Reference Data: Standard Grab Configurations
Although the table below provides technical details for standard models to guide your initial selection, actual performance depends on your specific application. Factors such as material properties and duty cycles play a critical role. Therefore, the data shown is based on standard scenarios and should be verified by our experts before finalizing your order. Glory Rail is ready to analyze your specific needs—please contact us for bespoke technical solutions and our full product line.
| Model | Bucket Capacity (m³) |
Rated Lifting Capacity (t) |
Dead Weight (t) |
A (mm) |
B (mm) |
C (mm) |
D (mm) |
E (mm) |
Pulley Diameter (mm) |
Wire Rope Diameter (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| YK10 [3-6] 4.5 | 3-6 | 10 | 4.5 | 2600 | 3338 | 3756 | 4071 | 2700 | φ445 | φ24 |
| YK14 [4-7] 6 | 4-7 | 14 | 6 | 2780 | 3398 | 4092 | 4448 | 2800 | φ520 | φ28 |
| YK16 [4-8] 7 | 4-8 | 16 | 7 | 2780 | 3398 | 4092 | 4448 | 3000 | φ520 | φ28 |
| YK20 [5-10] 8 | 5-10 | 20 | 8 | 2810 | 3591 | 4192 | 4513 | 3560 | φ560 | φ32 |
| YK25 [6-12] 10 | 6-12 | 25 | 10 | 3000 | 3837 | 1187 | 4850 | 4100 | φ650 | φ36 |
| YK28 [8-16] 10.5 | 8-16 | 28 | 10.5 | 3060 | 3887 | 4559 | 4881 | 4320 | φ652 | φ36 |
| YK32 [10-20] 13 | 12-20 | 35 | 14 | 3270 | 4109 | 5008 | 5391 | 4600 | φ720 | φ40 |
| YK40 [12-24] 16 | 12-24 | 40 | 17 | 3520 | 4374 | 5136 | 5495 | 4700 | φ800 | φ45 |
| YK50 [15-30] 21 | 15-30 | 50 | 21 | 4000 | 4873 | 5850 | 6072 | 4900 | φ880 | φ52 |
| Model | Bucket Capacity (m³) |
A | B | C | D | E | Dead Weight (kg) |
Motor Power 380V 50Hz |
Motor Power 440V 60Hz |
Closing Time (s) |
Working Oil Pressure (kg/cm²) |
Rated Lifting Capacity (t) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DYP8 [1.5-3] 3.5 | 1.5-3 | 2242 | 3020 | 2975 | 2605 | 1872 | 3500 | 18.5 | 21 | 14 | 200 | 8 |
| DYP14 [3-6] 5.5 | 3-6 | 2520 | 3153 | 3019 | 2897 | 2516 | 5500 | 22 | 26 | 18 | 200 | 14 |
| DYP16 [4-8] 6.5 | 4-8 | 2800 | 3350 | 3488 | 3160 | 2965 | 6500 | 30 | 35 | 18 | 200 | 16 |
| DYP20 [5-10] 7 | 5-10 | 2850 | 3700 | 3620 | 3200 | 3050 | 7000 | 30 | 35 | 18 | 200 | 20 |
| DYP25 [6-12] 10 | 6-12 | 3540 | 4327 | 3990 | 3413 | 3600 | 10000 | 45 | 52 | 20 | 200 | 25 |
| DYP28 [8-15] 11 | 8-15 | 3540 | 4027 | 3785 | 3325 | 3400 | 11000 | 45 | 52 | 20 | 200 | 28 |
| DYP32 [10-18] 13 | 10-18 | 3400 | 4360 | 4500 | 3900 | 3950 | 13000 | 45 | 52 | 22 | 200 | 32 |
| DYP40 [12-22] 17 | 12-22 | 3849 | 4471 | 4604 | 4320 | 4500 | 17000 | 55 | 63 | 33 | 200 | 40 |
| Specification | Bucket Capacity (m³; Angle of Repose) |
Bulk Density of Material (t/m³) |
Dead Weight (t; Pulley Block Ratio) |
A | B | C | D | E | Pulley Diameter (mm) |
Service Height (m) |
Wire Rope Diameter (mm) |
Applicable Crane Rated Lifting Capacity (t) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CS3 [0.7] 1A | 0.7(350) | 2 | 1(4) | 1434 | 1927 | 1844 | 2100 | 920 | φ220 | 7 | φ12 | 3 |
| CS3 [1.0] 1.4A | 1.0(350) | 1.2 | 1.4(4) | 1600 | 1990 | 2255 | 2607 | 1155 | φ350 | 7.5 | φ12 | 3 |
| CS5 [0.75] 2.0A | 0.75(200) | 3.5 | 2(4) | 1800 | 2477 | 2683 | 3117 | 1008 | φ400 | 9.5 | φ15.5 | 5 |
| CS5 [1.5] 2.0A | 1.5(200) | 2.0 | 2.0(5) | 1800 | 2338 | 2557 | 2918 | 1400 | φ400 | 11.5 | φ15.5 | 5 |
| CS5 [3] 2.2A | 3(400) | 0.9 | 2.2(4) | 2386 | 3139 | 3012 | 3441 | 1650 | φ400 | 11 | φ17.5 | 5 |
| CS8 [4] 4.2A | 4(350) | 1.1 | 3.6(4) | 2500 | 3313 | 3414 | 3903 | 2050 | φ520 | 11.5 | φ21.5 | 8 |
| CS8 [5] 4.5A | 5(400) | 0.9 | 3.5(4) | 2520 | 3439 | 3571 | 4022 | 2200 | φ520 | 12 | φ21.5 | 10 |
| CS10 [8.5] 4.5A | 8.5(400) | 0.65 | 4.5(3) | 2960 | 3859 | 3870 | 4487 | 2590 | φ520 | 11.5 | φ21.5 | 10 |
| CS16 [6] 6A | 6(350) | 1.7 | 6(4) | 2893 | 3800 | 4016 | 4582 | 2300 | φ560 | 13.5 | φ28 | 16 |
Need more technical details? The data provided is for reference purposes only for standard models. We offer comprehensive crane grab solutions that can be customized for specific duty classes (A5/A6/M7) and material densities. To download the complete specification sheet or discuss your specific needs, please contact us for immediate assistance.
Crane Grab Applications
Covering Major Bulk Material Handling Scenarios Worldwide
Our crane grab bucket product line is widely used in bulk material handling applications across various industries worldwide. The following are the key application areas we have served:
Ports & Terminals
At ports and bulk cargo terminals, crane-mounted grab bucket systems are the core equipment for ship loading and unloading operations. Our four-rope mechanical clamshell grab achieves a loading and unloading efficiency of over 500 metric tons per hour and is compatible with various types of port gantry cranes and quay crane systems.
Recommended grabs: Mechanical Four-Rope Clamshell Grab / Hydraulic Grab
Power Plants & Energy
Coal-fired power plants require a continuous, efficient supply of coal. Our electro-hydraulic orange peel grabs for waste-to-energy power generation are also suitable for fuel handling operations at biomass power plants and waste-to-energy plants, supporting 24/7 high-frequency operation.
Recommended grabs: Clamshell Grab / Orange Peel Grab
Steel Mills & Metallurgy
In steel mills and metallurgical shops, crane grabs are primarily used for loading scrap steel, removing slag, and handling finished products. The multi-lobed design of the Orange Peel Grab allows it to securely grasp irregularly shaped scrap steel, while the powerful closing force of the hydraulic grab makes light work of high-density slag.
Recommended Grabs: Orange Peel Grab / Hydraulic Grab
Construction & Mining
Construction sites and mines require the efficient handling of large volumes of sand, gravel, and earth. Overhead crane grab systems, mounted on bridge or gantry cranes, enable wide-range material handling operations within limited spaces.
Recommended grabs: Clamshell Grab / Mechanical Rope Grab
Waste Management
Municipal solid waste treatment plants and recycling centers require reliable, heavy-duty gripping equipment. Our electro-hydraulic “orange peel” grabs for waste-to-energy applications are specifically designed to withstand corrosive environments and high-wear conditions.
Recommended Grabs: Orange Peel Grab / Remote-Controlled Grab
Grain & Agriculture
Grain processing plants, feed mills, and port grain silos have high requirements for material integrity. Electric motor grabs and remote-controlled grabs allow for precise control of gripping force, preventing grain damage while meeting food-grade hygiene standards.
Recommended grabs: Electric Motor Grab / Remote-Controlled Grab
Is your industry not listed? Glory Rail can create a customized solution just for you.
How to Choose the Right Grab for Crane Applications
Choosing the right crane grab not only affects operational efficiency but also directly impacts equipment safety and operating costs. Below is a four-step selection method we’ve developed based on our experience with over 500 projects to help you quickly identify the most suitable crane grab solution.
Material Properties
- Particle Size & Density: Analyze material size distribution and bulk density (t/m³).
- Physical Attributes: Evaluate moisture content, fluidity, and corrosiveness.
Crane Specifications
- SWL Capacity: Ensure grab weight plus payload does not exceed safe working load.
- Winch & Hook: Confirm wire rope falls, hook style, and power limits.
Duty Class Selection
- Operating Frequency: Select A5, A6, or M7 duty class based on working cycles.
- Heavy-Duty Design: Reinforced structural fatigue resistance for 24/7 continuous duty.
Drive Mechanism
- Drive Types: Choose from mechanical (rope-operated), electro-hydraulic, or electric motor.
- Smart Control: Supports wireless remote control for mid-air opening/closing.
Unsure About Your Exact Crane Grab Configuration?
Submit your material density and crane hoist parameters to receive a custom engineering recommendation within 24 hours.
Recommended Q&A
A crane grab is an automatic material-handling device mounted beneath a crane that uses cables or a hydraulic system to open and close its jaws, enabling the loading and unloading of bulk materials. Unlike a hook, it can complete the loading and unloading cycle without manual assistance.
The main types of crane grabs include: mechanical rope grabs, hydraulic grabs, electric motor grabs, remote-controlled grabs, and orange peel grabs. Each type is suitable for different material properties and operating environments.
To choose the right grab for crane applications, follow four steps: identify your material type, match your crane specifications (load capacity, rope count), select the appropriate working level / duty class (A5, A6, M7), and confirm the drive type (mechanical/hydraulic/electric).
A: Yes, in most cases it is possible. As long as the crane’s rated lifting capacity and structural integrity can support the combined weight of the grab and the payload, a crane grab can be retrofitted onto an existing single-girder or double-girder overhead crane. We will customize the load-bearing beams and connection interfaces to ensure seamless integration without the need for major structural modifications.
Please send us your crane model and rated lifting capacity, and our engineers will provide a free compatibility assessment within 24 hours.
The choice depends on your material and operating environment. Mechanical clamshell buckets (such as two-rope or four-rope models) offer high reliability and require very little maintenance, making them ideal for handling standard bulk materials such as coal, grain, or sand. In contrast, hydraulic clamshell buckets provide tremendous closing force and precise control, making them the ideal choice for handling irregular, dense, or tangled materials such as scrap metal, rock, or municipal solid waste.
This is a key consideration that is often overlooked. The sudden closing and lifting of a heavy-duty crane grab can generate severe dynamic impact loads and lateral deflection forces. Over time, if the rail mounting system is inadequate, this can accelerate wear on the crane wheel flanges and cause rail displacement. To mitigate this impact, we recommend pairing your grab system with high-hardness, hardened crane wheels and robust rail-securing solutions—such as welded rail clamps—to absorb the impact and maintain track alignment.
CLIENTS we've worked with
