When you work at a construction site, you rely on several pieces of equipment to get the job done. One critical item to use is a clamshell bucket crane.
Clamshell buckets work alongside your digging material to collect dirt and rocks. From there, you can dump the debris away from the digging site.
Clamshell buckets can make your work more efficient. However, not all clamshell bucket models are created equal.
If you want to upgrade your bucket crane, there are several things to consider. In this guide, we’ll walk through four items to consider when purchasing clamshell crane buckets.
1. Choose Your Bucket with Soil Conditions in Mind
Contractors must choose their clamshell cranes based on several factors. One of the primary issues to consider is the type of soil you work with. Different types of clamshell buckets work better in various soil conditions.
For a clamshell crane, heavy-duty options are usually the most popular. These work on several types of soil, including clay, gravel, sand, and silt. They utilize top-quality, abrasion-resistant materials.
2. Choosing the Classification of a Clamshell Bucket Crane
Clamshell buckets often fall under one of two classifications based on the number of cylinders and the constructive geometry they have. A clamshell bucket will have either one or two cylinders. Likewise, their constructive geometry uses either a vertical or horizontal cylinder.
These characteristics make clamshells more suitable for the task at hand. For example, a bucket with a horizontal cylinder is more compact.
Their compact nature helps them load loose materials like sand. Vertical cylinders, however, work much better for digging purposes.
3. Adding Accessories to the Bucket
Contractors can add several accessories to a bucket to enhance its performance. One of the most common accessories for this equipment is a hydraulic rotator.
A hydraulic rotator lets the operator run the equipment in either rotational direction. This feature is tremendously helpful when positioning long and unwieldy objects like logs.
It has other uses beyond this, though. A hydraulic rotator also helps establish the direction of a dig. The hydraulic rotator also serves as a hydraulic joint, allowing oil to pass from the operating machine to the grab.
Other accessories for clam buckets also exist. Some of the more popular options include replaceable cutting edges, suspension links, and rotation devices.
4. Search for Wear and Tear
Keeping your clamshell buckets well-maintained can help preserve their lifespan. So, take some time to investigate your buckets. What parts seem the most weathered?
Sometimes, simply replacing these parts can save you from purchasing a new clamshell bucket. If not, though, it at least gives you an idea of what to look out for with your upgrade.
Find the Best Contractor Equipment Today
A clamshell bucket crane can provide the service you need for your contracting work. If you follow these four tips, you can find the right equipment for the job.
If you need more information to find the best products, that’s no problem! Check out some of our other articles today to learn more.
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