Grab Bucket loading and unloading operations are controlled by the crane operator; they are easy to operate and highly efficient, and are used in mines, ports, steel mills, power plants, and bulk cargo handling operations.
The grab bucket is one of the main components of a QZ Grab Overhead Crane. Different grab bucket types are available for coal, ore, sand, slag, grain, and other bulk materials.
Visit the QZ Grab Overhead Crane product page to learn more about its specifications, working principle, applications, and customization options.
Crane grabs can be classified into various types based on their drive mechanisms and structural designs. The following are some of the most common types of grabs:
The Mechanical Clamshell Grab Bucket is designed for handling bulk materials such as coal, sand and gravel, ore, and grain. It features a simple structure, stable operation, and low maintenance costs. can be used with a overhead crane.It is suitable for bulk material handling operations in ports, power plants, and other similar environments.
The Electric Motor Clamshell Grab Bucket is designed for light to medium-density bulk materials such as coal, grain, and fertilizer. It is motor-driven, ensuring stable opening and closing and convenient operation. It is suitable for continuous loading and unloading operations in ports and power plants.
The Hydraulic Clamshell Grab Bucket is designed for applications involving ore, wet materials, and sticky substances. It features hydraulic drive, high gripping force, and excellent sealing performance. It is suitable for mining, sludge treatment, and heavy-duty environments.
The Mechanical Orange Peel Grab Bucket is designed for handling lumpy materials such as scrap steel, rocks, and waste. It features a robust structure and high impact resistance. It is commonly used in steel mills, waste processing, and recycling industries.
The Electric Motor Orange Peel Grab Bucket is designed for the handling of scrap steel, metal waste, and industrial waste. It is motor-driven, offering flexible operation and high efficiency. It is suitable for use in scrap steel processing plants and port loading/unloading operations.
The Hydraulic Orange Peel Grab Bucket is designed for high-intensity applications such as handling heavy scrap steel and large metal pieces. Powered by a hydraulic system, it offers strong gripping force and stable operation. It is commonly used in steel mills and scrap yards.
The Crane Grab Bucket primarily consists of the following key components:
The Crane Grab Bucket performs grabbing, lifting, and unloading operations by opening and closing its bucket flaps. Its operating principle is as follows:
After grabbing the material, the crane’s hoisting mechanism lifts the grab along with the material to the designated height.
The crane moves the grab to the unloading position, maintaining a stable grip to prevent material spillage.
Crane grab buckets are designed for handling and transporting bulk materials. Grab buckets of different models and drive types vary in capacity, lifting capacity, and drive mechanism. The table below lists the key performance parameters of commonly used grab buckets to facilitate quick selection of the appropriate model.
| Parameter | Range / Type |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 0.5 – 20 m³ |
| Lifting Load | 1 – 50 ton |
| Grab Type | Mechanical / Electric / Hydraulic |
| Material | Q345 / NM400 Steel |
| Operation | Rope, Electric Motor, or Hydraulic |
| Tine Number | 2–6 (depending on type) |
| Rotation | Optional 360° (for hydraulic orange peel grab) |
| Control | Remote / Cabin / Manual |
| Application | Coal, Ore, Scrap, Grain, Bulk Material |
Crane grabs are suitable for a wide range of bulk material handling applications and can be configured to meet the specific needs of various industries. The following are common areas of application:






For this project, we customized and delivered 26 sets of high-efficiency, hygienic, and reliable stainless steel grab buckets to a large-scale alcohol production plant, specifically designed to meet the material handling needs of the brewing industry.
The grabs feature an internal opening and closing mechanism that reduces wear and the risk of failure. They utilize self-weight excavation to enhance penetration and gripping capacity, making them particularly suitable for dense or semi-wet materials. Equipped with SEW motor systems, they offer superior protection and stability, while integrated limit switches enhance safety and prevent common malfunctions. Constructed from 304 stainless steel, the grabs comply with food hygiene standards, ensuring long-term durability and corrosion resistance, and helping customers optimize their automated bulk material handling systems.


| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Quantity | 26 Sets |
| Application | Alcohol production (distiller’s grains, sauce materials) |
| Material | Food-grade 304 Stainless Steel |
| Drive System | Internal motor-driven opening/closing mechanism |
| Motor Brand | SEW Motor |
| Operation Type | Electric grab bucket |
| Working Environment | Clean / hygienic bulk material handling |
Weihua offers customized solutions tailored to specific operating conditions and application requirements, primarily covering the following aspects:

Weihua is a professional manufacturer and supplier of crane grabs, with over 37 years of experience in the production of lifting equipment. Our products are used in ports, mines, steel mills, and the bulk material handling industry, where we have accumulated extensive project experience. All grabs are manufactured in accordance with international standards and are CE and ISO certified. They have been exported to numerous countries and operate reliably and stably.
We have a professional engineering team that provides equipment selection and technical solution support during the early stages of a project. After delivery, we offer installation guidance and technical services, along with a one-year warranty. If you require a customized grab solution, please feel free to contact us.


Weihua, founded in 1988, has evolved into a global leader in China's intelligent manufacturing field. We specialize in smart crane R&D and production while offering AGV solutions. Our professional engineering, delivery, and after-sales teams provide one-stop technical support, customized solutions, on-site installation guidance, and rapid-response global services to ensure every project operates safely and efficiently.
Used for handling bulk materials such as coal, ore, and scrap.
Clamshell, orange peel, hydraulic, and rope-operated types.
Based on material type, density, lifting capacity, and working conditions.
Yes, capacity, material, and control type can be customized.
Depends on capacity, type, and configuration. Contact for a quote.
Contact us now via email: [email protected], or fill in the form below.
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