How to choose a demolition grapple? Types and use of different models in practice

Demolition grabs are indispensable tools on any construction site where demolition, grading and handling work is carried out. Choosing the right model depends on a number of factors - from the type of material you want to grapple, to the weight of the carrier and how it is used. In this article, we will give you tips on how to match a grapple to your specific needs and introduce you to the most popular types of demolition grapple available from Techna.

What is a demolition grapple?

A demolition grapple, also known as a hydraulicgrapple for excavators, is a hydraulic attachment for excavators or loaders that significantly increases the efficiency and precision of work on site. It is equipped with two jaws (paws) and a rotating mechanism that allows 360° rotation, allowing the operator to have full control over the movement of the tool, regardless of the ground conditions. This allowsthe grapple to work easily in hard-to-reach areas, ensuring maximum accuracy when manoeuvring structural components.

Demolition and sorting grabs are widely used in various stages of demolition and clean-up work. It is primarily used for sorting demolition materials such as brick, concrete or metal, but also for handling rubble and construction waste, loading and unloading raw materials and supporting recycling processes directly on site. As a result, the demolition grapple becomes an indispensable piece of equipment for any company involved in demolition, waste separation or infrastructure work.

What types of demolition grapples are there?

There are many types of demolition grapples available on the market, which differ in design, purpose and technical capabilities. Choosing the right model depends primarily on the type of work, the weight of the carrier and the characteristics of the materials to be handled. Below are the most popular types of grapples used in the demolition industry - from universal to heavy and specialised solutions from Techna.

Universal grapples (e.g. Techna SG02, SG04)

Ideal for sorting materials after demolition.
Often used for cleaning work on construction sites.
Compatible with mini-excavators (2-9 t).
Example of use: site clearance after demolition of a single-family house.

Heavy-duty grapples (e.g. SG06, SG08, SG10)

Designed for larger excavators (12-45 t).
The reinforced construction allows the handling of larger, heavier items such as reinforced concrete beams or steel scrap.
Used in demolition of industrial halls, viaducts and bridges.

Special grapples with blades

Often fitted with teeth for better gripping of irregular materials.
Suitable for scrap metal, wood, bricks.
Used in waste treatment plants or recycling companies.

What to look for when choosing a gripper? Tips on how to match the model to the task

We already know what types of demolition grapples are available, so it is now worth looking at the factors that determine the right model for specific working conditions. The right attachment for excavator and the type of task at hand is crucial for the efficiency, safety and durability of the equipment. Here are the most important aspects to look out for before buying a demolition grapple.

Weight of the carrier (excavator)

When choosing a grapple, match its weight and size to the machine. For example:

SG02 - for excavators 2-5 t,
SG04 - for excavators 6-9 t,
SG06 - for excavators 12-17 t,
SG08 - for excavators 18-28 t,
SG10 - for excavators 29-45 t.

A grab that is too heavy can overload the machine's hydraulic system, leading to faster component wear and an increased risk of failure. Conversely, an attachment that is too light will not take full advantage of the excavator's capabilities, limiting its productivity during operation.

Type of work to be performed

If the main task is sorting demolition debris, universal models with straight jaws that ensure fast and precise separation of materials such as concrete, brick or stone are sufficient. When working with steel components, rebar or scrap metal, grippers with increased gripping force and special cutting teeth are a better option , guaranteeing efficient handling of heavier, irregular pieces of construction.

For the loading and handling of raw materials, models with a wide-angle jaw opening are the best choice, allowing more material to be quickly grasped and filling containers or trailers more efficiently.

Rotation system

The rotation system is an element that greatly influences the comfort and precision of working with the gripper. Hydraulic 360° rotation is now standard on professional models - it allows the jaws to rotate smoothly in any direction without having to change the position of the machine. This makes it easy for the operator to manoeuvre the gripper even in tight spaces or when working on uneven terrain, significantly increasing the accuracy and safety of operations. This type of system is not only comfortable to operate, but also saves real time and fuel during daily tasks.

Construction material

The material of construction is crucial to the durability and reliability of the gripper, which is exposed to heavy loads and intensive use on a daily basis. The best models are made of high-strength steel with increased resistance to abrasion, cracking and deformation, which guarantees a long service life even in the toughest working conditions - when dealing with concrete, scrap metal or stone. It is also worth paying attention to the quality of welds and structural reinforcements, which further protect the device from mechanical damage and ensure its stable, trouble-free operation for a long time.

Recommended grapples for excavators - see examples of application of Techna grapples

Techna 's hydraulic grapples for excavators are attachments for the most demanding conditions - from small construction sites to large industrial projects. With their robust design and precise control, they enable a wide variety of demolition and clean-up tasks to be carried out quickly, safely and efficiently. Learn about some of the proven application examples of the SG02-SG10 models, which show how versatile and effective Techna grapples can be in everyday work.

Warehouse and hall demolition - the SG10 model allows the safe handling of structural steel components.
Urban rubble sorting - the SG02 on the mini excavator handles concrete and brick perfectly.
Scrap metalrecycling - SG04 used in metal waste processing plants.
Infrastructure work on viaducts - SG08 for removing precast and rebar.

Will grapples fit every machine?

Not every grapple will fit every excavator or loader, so the compatibility of attachmentsfor excavators should be carefully checked before purchasing . Parameters such as the weight of the carrier, hydraulic pressure and flow, as well as the type of attachment (e.g. quick coupler) are crucial. The safest solution is to consult the manufacturer or a technical advisor, who will help to select a model that is perfectly suited to the specific machine and the type of work being performed.

Why does the right choice of grapple for excavator/machine matter?

The right choice of grapple for excavators or work machines is of paramount importance for the efficiency, safety and life of the entire equipment. The right attachment allows you to get the most out of your machine, reduce fuel consumption and reduce the risk of breakdowns. It's an investment that translates directly into productivity and real savings on site - here's a real-life example demonstrating the relationship!

Example: demolition of a 150 m² building

✅ With demolition grab (e.g. SG04)

Rubble sorting time: 3 days
Quantity of waste disposed of: 20 tonnes
Cost of transport and disposal: £800/tonne x 20 tonnes = £16,000
Material saved (sorted and reused): 10 tonnes
Labour cost (3 days x 2 people x £500): PLN 3 000

TOTAL: £19,000

❌ Without grapple (hand sorting / excavator with grapple):

Debris sorting time: 6 days
Quantity of waste exported: 30 tonnes
Cost of transport and disposal: £800/tonne x 30 tonnes = £24,000
Material saved: 0 tonnes
Labour cost (6 days x 2 people x £500): PLN 6 000

TOTAL: PLN 30 000

The use of the demolition grapple makes it possible to significantly reduce the costs of execution of works - in the example analysed , the difference amounts to as much as PLN 11 000, which translates into savings of 36%! This proves that investing in the right equipment quickly pays for itself, while increasing the efficiency and speed of the tasks performed. In addition, the use of a grapple means shorter execution times, fewer machines on site, a higher level of safety and the possibility of recovering valuable materials such as bricks and scrap.

Choosing the right demolition grapple is the key to efficient and safe demolition work. The right attachment for excavators increases efficiency, reduces operation time and reduces wear and tear on the machine. At Techna, you will find a wide range of grapples for excavators from 2 to 45 tonnes - ready to operate in the toughest conditions. If you need help fitting an attachment, please contact our technical advisor!

FAQ

What is the difference between a demolition grapple and a grading grapple?

The demolition grapple has a stronger design and greater gripping force, so it can work with heavy, irregular workpieces. The sorting grapple, on the other hand, works better with lighter materials such as rubble, timber or construction waste.

Can the grapple be mounted on every excavator?

Not every model will be compatible with every excavator - the hydraulic characteristics, the weight of the machine and the type of attachment are crucial. It is always advisable to consult the manufacturer or a technical advisor to avoid installation and performance problems.

What materials can be handled with a demolition grapple?

These grapples can handle concrete, brick, stone, scrap metal or wood. Depending on the model, they can also be used for sorting, recycling or precise dismantling of structural components.

How do I look after the gripper to make it last as long as possible?
Regular maintenance includes lubricating the joints, checking the jaws and hydraulic lines and checking the condition of the seals. Taking good care of these components avoids breakdowns and prolongs the life of the equipment.

Can the grapple be used for work outside of demolition?

Yes, many models are also suitable for waste sorting, metal recycling or industrial cleaning work. Multi-purpose grapples can also be used for loading and unloading raw materials.

What are the most common mistakes when selecting a grapple?

The most common are choosing a model that is too heavy for a small excavator or mismatching the hydraulic flow. Such mistakes lead to reduced productivity, overloading of the machine or faster wear of the attachment.

Does the weight of the grapple affect the stability of the excavator

Yes - a grapple that is too heavy can reduce the stability of the excavator and increase the risk of the machine tipping over. It is therefore important to match the weight of the attachment to the load capacity and technical specifications of the excavator.

What are the advantages of grapples made of high-strength steel?

They are much more resistant to abrasion, cracking and deformation, which translates into a longer service life. Such material is ideal for harsh conditions, such as working with concrete or steel scrap.

How much can be saved by using a demolition grapple?

On average, the cost of carrying out the work can be reduced by up to 30-40%, thanks to shorter working times, less fuel consumption and material recovery. Investing in the right grapple pays for itself quickly, plus it improves operator safety and comfort.

Read also: