Grab Cranes
Grabs are cranes that handle bulk. Their names stem from the “grabs” they possess instead of hooks, which aid in the lifting of types of bulk cargo. The bulk cargo includes mineral ores, coals, sand, cement, and other materials. The grab can lift contents with large mass and volume, and its importance is significant in the loading and offloading of vessels. Also, grab cranes have an extended body that allows it to reach below a hatch, allowing the product to be centered for proper access. A grab crane can grab and hoist at the same time. Also, operating the grab while hoisting can make cycle times more efficient and bring less stress on the ropes. In essence, maintenance, repairing, and overhauling costs are reduced, and so is downtime.
There are grabs designed for general purposes and others to lift only specific products. Therefore, grab cranes can be used in all industries. Grab cranes are often used in conjunction with grab dredgers. Grab dredgers aid in the activity of excavation. A typical dredging operation occurs under the sea, where sediments are gathered. Afterward, they are disposed to various locations via grab cranes. Also, a grab crane allows for the handling of bulk and stevedores. A grab crane has specialized software which allows for better operations.
Grab cranes are custom-designed and uniquely-made. Besides, their operations of unloading have a maximum capacity. Grab cranes are engineered, keeping in mind that they must be duty-cycle and rigid. They can operate dead weight volumes ranging from 0.1 m3 to 50 m3. Their grabbing potential is specially constructed, and their blades are resistant to corrosion and oxidization. The bearings of a grab are adequately sealed in oil baths since their operations occur in adverse conditions.
Importance of Grab Cranes’ Maintenance and Repair
Despite being categorized as heavy machinery, grabs can be damaged and in need of repairs. There can be accidents, need for steelworks, overhauling its mechanisms, the hydraulic cylinders might need replacement, the power packs need to be maintained. Besides, the grabs need to be inspected and troubleshooting only by specialists with expertise, either on a port or afloat.
Grab crane or dredger maintenance needs to be done at regular intervals, even if their design designates them as low-maintenance. Typically, a maintenance company can perform its service on-site, with no need to anchoring the vessel, but they usually have workshops working full-time in repairing the grab, overhauling damaged components, and providing spreader cable drums, grab cables, tugger winches, etc. Also, a maintenance company can offer tech support, repairs and revisions, tests, and delivery of spare components, adhering to deadlines. These services are in effect at a global level. A charterer can ask for a service’s company’s assistance at any time of the day, any day of the week.
In essence, a grab repair company can perform repairs, maintenance, and inspections. They can provide for the grab crane’s parts and modernization needs.