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Clamshell Buckets

HAWK’s excavator clamshell buckets (also known as clam buckets)are the best choice for dredging and material re-handling. These buckets are available in two different versions: rotating and non-rotating. The rotating version features a 360-degree sealed rotation. 

HAWK’s clamshell buckets work with excavators from 5 to 39 tons, with a 62 to 86 inch opening and anywhere from 0.6-3m³ capacity. HAWK can also customize a new hydraulic clamshell bucket to fit any client-specified application and demand. While these excavator attachments are typically used in excavation, they can also be utilized for other uses. Every application comes with unique requirements with designs that must be optimized for maximum efficiency. 

HAWK’s clamshell buckets for excavators are known for their efficiency, functionality, and quality. Hawk Excavator specializes in developing, designing, and manufacturing mechanical and hydraulic clamshells for cranes and excavators. Customers can customize the attachment depending on its width, grip measure, capacity, and opening size.

Excavator Range: 5 – 50 Ton
Capacity: 1.0 – 3.0m³
Recommended Applications: commonly used in dredging, excavation, or material handling

Benefits of Clamshell Buckets

Clamshell buckets, whether rotating or non-rotating, offer a range of benefits that make them indispensable tools for various excavation and material handling tasks. Here are some key advantages:

Versatility: Clamshell buckets are highly versatile attachments that can be used for a wide range of applications, including dredging, excavation, material handling, and bulk material loading. Their ability to efficiently grab and lift various materials, such as soil, sand, gravel, and debris, makes them invaluable assets on construction sites, ports, and marine environments.

Efficiency: With their unique design, clamshell buckets enable efficient and precise material handling, allowing operators to quickly and accurately grab and release loads with minimal effort. This efficiency translates to increased productivity and reduced downtime, as tasks can be completed faster and more effectively compared to traditional excavation methods.

Increased Productivity: The use of clamshell buckets, particularly rotating models, can significantly enhance productivity on job sites. Rotating clamshell buckets offer 360-degree rotation capabilities, allowing operators to access hard-to-reach areas and maneuver materials with ease. This increased maneuverability leads to faster cycle times and greater overall efficiency in material handling operations.

Improved Safety: Clamshell buckets promote safety on job sites by minimizing the need for manual labor and reducing the risk of accidents associated with traditional excavation methods. With precise control over material handling operations, operators can maintain a safe distance from hazardous areas and avoid potential injury or damage to surrounding structures and equipment.

Customization Options: Many manufacturers offer customization options for clamshell buckets, allowing them to be tailored to specific excavator models and job requirements. This ensures optimal compatibility and performance, as well as the ability to handle various materials and operating conditions effectively.

Enhanced Cost-effectiveness: Clamshell buckets help reduce operational costs and improve overall cost-effectiveness by streamlining material handling processes and increasing productivity. The efficiency gains and labor savings associated with clamshell bucket usage can lead to significant long-term cost savings for construction companies and contractors.

Overall, clamshell buckets, whether rotating or non-rotating, provide numerous benefits that contribute to improved efficiency, productivity, and safety on construction sites and other industrial environments. Their versatility, efficiency, and customizability make them essential tools for any excavator operator looking to maximize performance and profitability.

Key Features of Clamshell Buckets

Dual Hydraulic Cylinders: Clamshell buckets are equipped with two powerful hydraulic cylinders that precisely control the opening and closing of the bucket arms. This dual-cylinder design ensures smooth and efficient operation, allowing operators to handle materials easily and accurately.

High-Strength Construction: Designed to withstand the rigors of heavy-duty excavation and material handling tasks, clamshell buckets feature a robust construction using high-strength steel materials. This ensures durability and longevity, even when operating in demanding environments and handling abrasive materials.

Interchangeable Teeth and Cutting Edges: Clamshell buckets have interchangeable teeth and cutting edges that can be easily replaced when worn or damaged. This ensures consistent performance and extends the bucket’s service life, reducing maintenance costs and downtime.

Multiple Size Options: Clamshell buckets can be customized in various sizes and capacities to suit different excavator models and job requirements. Whether it’s small-scale excavation or large-scale material handling, there is a clamshell bucket size suitable for every application.

Heavy-Duty Hydraulic System: Clamshell buckets have a heavy-duty hydraulic system that provides the necessary power and control to operate the bucket arms smoothly and efficiently. This hydraulic system ensures consistent performance, even under heavy loads and in harsh operating conditions.

Quick Attachment System: Many clamshell buckets feature a quick attachment system, allowing easy installation and removal from the excavator. This enables operators to quickly switch between different attachments and maximize the versatility of their equipment.

Optional Accessories: Clamshell buckets may come with optional accessories such as hydraulic thumbs, grapples, and extensions to further enhance functionality and versatility. These accessories allow operators to customize the bucket for specific tasks and improve overall efficiency on the job site.

Easy Maintenance: Clamshell buckets are designed for easy maintenance, with access points provided for routine inspection and servicing of hydraulic components. This ensures that the bucket remains in optimal working condition, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity.

Safety Features: Safety is paramount when operating heavy equipment and clamshell buckets are equipped with various safety features such as load-holding valves and safety locks to prevent accidental drops and ensure operator safety during operation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Clamshell Bucket Attachments

What are clamshell buckets, and how do they work?

Clamshell buckets are excavator attachments designed for material handling and excavation tasks. They consist of two hinged buckets or jaws that open and close to grab and lift materials. Rotating clamshell buckets feature 360-degree rotation capabilities, allowing greater maneuverability and access to tight spaces.

What are the primary applications of clamshell buckets?

Clamshell buckets are commonly used for dredging, excavation, bulk material handling, and loading/unloading tasks in construction, mining, marine, and port industries. Their versatile design makes them suitable for various materials, including soil, sand, gravel, rocks, and debris.

What are the benefits of using rotating clamshell buckets?

Rotating clamshell buckets offer enhanced maneuverability and efficiency compared to non-rotating models. With 360-degree rotation capabilities, operators can access hard-to-reach areas and easily position the bucket for precise material handling. This increased flexibility leads to improved productivity and reduced operating time.

What are the advantages of non-rotating clamshell buckets?

While non-rotating clamshell buckets lack the rotational capabilities of their counterparts, they still offer efficient material handling and excavation performance. These buckets are well-suited for applications where precise positioning and rotation are not required, such as bulk material loading and excavation tasks in open areas.

Can clamshell buckets be customized for specific excavator models?

Yes, many manufacturers offer customization options for clamshell buckets to ensure compatibility with different excavator models and specifications. Customization may include adjustments to bucket size, capacity, hinge configuration, and attachment interface to meet the specific needs of the customer and their equipment.

What maintenance is required for clamshell buckets?

Regular maintenance is essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity of clamshell buckets. This may include inspecting and lubricating hinges and moving parts, checking for wear and tear, and replacing worn components as needed. It is also important to follow manufacturer recommendations for maintenance intervals and procedures.

Are clamshell buckets compatible with various material types?

Yes, clamshell buckets are designed to handle a wide range of materials, including soil, sand, gravel, rocks, debris, and more. The bucket’s design and construction are optimized for efficient grabbing and lifting performance across different material types and conditions.

What safety precautions should be followed when using clamshell buckets?

Operators should receive proper training on the safety of clamshell buckets and adhere to all safety guidelines and regulations. This includes maintaining a safe distance from the bucket during operation, avoiding overloading, and securing the work area to prevent accidents or injuries. Regular equipment inspections and safety checks are also recommended.