Customizing equipment is key to optimizing operational processes and ensuring more efficient results. A clear example is the tailored development of clamshell and orange peel grabs, specialized products by Stemm designed to meet each client's specific needs. Here, we explain how we carried out the custom design of a clamshell grab specifically commissioned by Gildan, a multinational renowned in the textile sector who was also involved in handling bulk materials like cereals and other products during loading and unloading operations in ship holds.
Custom Development: Design for Gildan
Although clamshell grabs have a long history of use in various industrial applications, the Stemm team specializes in designing customized solutions tailored to the specific conditions of each operation. For Gildan, we designed a clamshell grab to optimize the loading and unloading of cereals and other bulk materials in ship holds, considering limited space and the demands of bulk handling.
Key Design Features
The design of this clamshell grab for Gildan focused on three main aspects: protecting hydraulic components, ensuring efficient handling of bulk materials, and optimizing space in ship holds.
- Protection of Hydraulic Components: A recurring challenge when working with clamshell grabs in port environments is ensuring that components such as cylinders and links are protected from potential damage. In this case, the grab was designed so that the grab’s shells shielded these elements. This protection is crucial in confined spaces, such as ship hatches, where the risk of damage is high due to limited maneuvering room.
- Adaptation to Bulk Material Handling: The grab was designed to handle various bulk materials, such as cereals and other compactable products. To facilitate this process, penetration teeth were incorporated, allowing access to the most compacted materials, particularly at the bottom of the ship holds. These teeth help break up compacted layers caused by weight, improving efficiency and reducing loading time.
- Space Optimization: Ship loading operations typically occur in confined spaces, requiring compact and maneuverable tools without compromising load capacity. For this reason, the clamshell grab’s design was adapted to these conditions. It is compact enough to operate in ship hatches while maintaining the capacity to handle materials efficiently.
- Durability and Resistance: The port environment presents demanding conditions for equipment, with constant exposure to corrosion and wear. The grab was built with durable and resistant materials, ensuring its long-term reliability under severe working conditions. This approach guarantees that Gildan can operate without interruptions, maximizing the equipment’s lifespan.
Stemm: Optimization and Expertise in Service of Operational Efficiency
The design of the clamshell grab for Gildan showcases how custom engineering can transform key operations in sectors like bulk material handling. As detailed in this article, this equipment improves efficiency in extracting cereals and compacted products from ship holds and protects hydraulic components, extending the equipment’s lifespan and minimizing downtime. Its ability to operate in confined spaces highlights its value in port environments, where speed and precision are essential.
At Stemm, over three decades of experience underscore our commitment to tailor-made solutions that maximize performance and safety. This clamshell grab is a tangible example of how we address each client’s unique needs, developing equipment that combines innovation, durability, and efficiency to make a difference in every operation.
