Classics on the Waterways
Advances in bulk material handling engineering have allowed companies, across the variety of industries, to operate more efficiently. For those that rely on barges that run up and down the Mississippi and other major waterways, being able to quickly load and unload bulk materials is essential. Whether you are moving coal, grain, lime, sand or other materials, a clamshell grab bucket unloader provides an economical and efficient means of unloading bulk materials.
Grab bucket unloaders have been timeless icons along major waterways and a vital component for handling bulk materials. They are designed to unload barges or ships of varying sizes, with or without hatches. Hoisting cables allow the clamshell bucket to extend into the barge for pickup and back to the hopper for emptying. While the basic operation of the grab bucket remains the same, the mechanisms that power the system continue to evolve and may mean that it is time to upgrade your facility.
Machines naturally age through continual use and components and control systems can become outdated, thereby decreasing efficiency. To enjoy optimal performance from your grab unloader, be sure to inspect rope for wear, check all systems for proper lubrication, and verify any vibrations in the system. Keeping the electrical controls tuned reduces wear and material spillage. Maintaining and updating these features can extend the life of your machine.
Updating control and drive systems such as a PLC based control system, digital DC or AC drive and an HMI, can also improve performance by allowing operators to view the status of the machine from one location. This both increases diagnostic capabilities and safety. In addition, an ergonomically designed operator’s chair, will reduce fatigue and improve visibility. Finally, barge hauls can be upgraded for more accurately positioning that will reduce handling costs.
At Richmond Engineering, we work with companies to design and update grab bucket unloader systems to best fit their needs and meet their plant’s requirements. We offer electrical, mechanical, and structural repairs and upgrades on any manufacturer so that you can continue to operate as efficiently as possible. Contact us today to learn more.
Grab bucket unloaders have been timeless icons along major waterways and a vital component for handling bulk materials. They are designed to unload barges or ships of varying sizes, with or without hatches. Hoisting cables allow the clamshell bucket to extend into the barge for pickup and back to the hopper for emptying. While the basic operation of the grab bucket remains the same, the mechanisms that power the system continue to evolve and may mean that it is time to upgrade your facility.
Machines naturally age through continual use and components and control systems can become outdated, thereby decreasing efficiency. To enjoy optimal performance from your grab unloader, be sure to inspect rope for wear, check all systems for proper lubrication, and verify any vibrations in the system. Keeping the electrical controls tuned reduces wear and material spillage. Maintaining and updating these features can extend the life of your machine.
Updating control and drive systems such as a PLC based control system, digital DC or AC drive and an HMI, can also improve performance by allowing operators to view the status of the machine from one location. This both increases diagnostic capabilities and safety. In addition, an ergonomically designed operator’s chair, will reduce fatigue and improve visibility. Finally, barge hauls can be upgraded for more accurately positioning that will reduce handling costs.
At Richmond Engineering, we work with companies to design and update grab bucket unloader systems to best fit their needs and meet their plant’s requirements. We offer electrical, mechanical, and structural repairs and upgrades on any manufacturer so that you can continue to operate as efficiently as possible. Contact us today to learn more.
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