How to Choose the Right Grab for Demolition or Scrap Handling

Excavator grabs are vital attachments in the demolition and recycling industries. However, choosing the wrong grab can lead to inefficiency, safety hazards, and equipment failure. This guide explains how to select the most suitable grab for your specific job site needs.

1. Know Your Application Type

Before selecting a grab, identify the exact task:

Scrap metal handling: Use an orange peel grab with 4–5 tines
Concrete & construction waste: Choose a selector/demolition grab
Bulk loose material: Opt for a clamshell grab

Key factors to evaluate:

Type and density of the material
Handling volume per cycle
Need for precision or brute force

2. Choose the Right Grab Type

Orange Peel Grab: Designed for loose and irregular scrap, such as steel, car bodies, and debris. Ideal for scrapyards and recycling centers.
→ Features: High strength, deep penetration, fast cycle time.

Selector (Demolition) Grab: Best for controlled demolition, sorting, and secondary handling. Often used in urban areas.
→ Features: Wide jaw opening, rotatable (360°), high accuracy.

Clamshell Grab: Suited for port operations, sand, gravel, and soft bulk materials.
→ Features: Deep digging, strong closing force, optional closed shells.

3. Consider Rotation and Hydraulic Compatibility

Do you need full 360° rotation? → Important for precise placement and sorting.
Is your excavator equipped with adequate hydraulic pressure and flow?

→ Always match the grab’s flow/pressure specs with your machine.

4. Select the Right Material – Think Long-Term

Using low-quality steel may lower initial costs but leads to:

Deformation
Tine breakage
Excessive wear

Solution: Choose grabs made with Hardox® 450 or Weldox® 700 for maximum durability — all NG Attachments grabs are built this way.

5. Don’t Forget After-Sales Support

Downtime in demolition or recycling jobs is expensive. That’s why:

Fast spare part availability
Technical support
CE certification

are essential when choosing your supplier. NG Attachments ensures you’re never left unsupported.

Conclusion

Choosing the right grab means more than just picking a size. You need to consider material type, application precision, hydraulic compatibility, and long-term durability.

At NG Attachments, we design and deliver heavy-duty, CE-certified grabs tailored to your job site and your machine.

📩 info@nurgroup.com.tr
🌐 www.ngequipments.com