What is a clamshell bucket?
If you're new to construction and materials movement, you may be struggling to understand some of the jargon. With so many different types of equipment and accessories available, it can be difficult to know the differences and what you should be looking for.
The clamshell bucket is a versatile and efficient tool. If you've ever seen a grab loader or been on a construction site, you've likely seen a clamshell bucket. If you're curious about what they are and whether you could make use of one, wonder no more.
This blog covers everything you need to know about clamshell buckets - keep reading to find out how they could work for you.
Clamshell buckets: all you need to know!
Clamshell buckets get their name from their shape. They have two sides that are joined together with a hinge, allowing them to open and close. They are most suitable for handling and loading materials like gravel, sand, and earth.
Can be mounted on many machines, such as cranes, backhoes, excavators, and agricultural and material handling equipment.
Clamshell buckets can be used for picking up and digging, if they are equipped with the right accessories. They are very sturdy and can hold a lot of material, making them ideal for construction work.
Generally speaking, clamshell buckets are attached to dig digs, but they can also be attached to cranes and blackhoes, as well as hydraulic and mechanical options.
Is there a specific type of clamshell bucket I need?
There are a few common clamshell buckets you're likely to encounter, and the amount you need will depend on your project and the machine you're using. The main types of clamshell buckets are:
- Hydraulic clamshell buckets
Hydraulic clamshell buckets come in a wide range and are commonly used to carry earth, sand, and gravel. Their centre rotation mechanism means there are fewer parts. - Single rope cable clamshell buckets
These are more robust duty clamshell buckets that shareholding and closing lines, as the name implies, and they are often used on cranes that shareholding and closing lines. - Digging clamshell bucket
These clamshell buckets are more heavy-duty and are typically used on cranes for excavation work where heavy loads are to be dug and moved out.
Other clamshell buckets are available, including electrohydraulic clamshell buckets and rehandling clamshell buckets, all of which are available from a variety of manufacturers, including electrohydraulic clamshell buckets and rehandling clamshell buckets.
Leading supplier’s of Ritespec clamshell buckets
PCM Transport and Handling has been working with Tizmar SNC in Italy to produce the Ritespec Clamshell bucket for the last 20 years. We are the only UK importer of Ritespec products, meaning you’ll only ever get the real deal when you shop with us.