In the daily operations of a foundry, challenges arise due to the various materials being handled, including iron, steel, aluminum, bronze, and others. Additionally, each material has many applications, such as machinery components, pipelines, automotive parts, etc. Understanding their capabilities and characteristics firsthand is essential. However, safety undoubtedly takes precedence when considering the primary challenge in foundries.
The high temperatures at which materials are manipulated turn foundry plants into spaces designed from start to finish to withstand extreme thermal levels. This requirement extends to every tool and machine within the foundry, including casting ladles, protective clothing, welding shields and curtains, cranes, material handling equipment, and furnaces. It's precisely here that Stemm's electrohydraulic clamshell grabs fit perfectly.
Adaptation of Electrohydraulic Clamshell Grabs to Foundries
Electrohydraulic clamshell grabs, with their structure comprising two movable jaws with safety stops in their opening, fulfill a series of essential functions and varied applications in handling materials at high temperatures. These include collecting or pouring molten material from furnaces or crucibles to their processing zone and resistance to aggressive environments typical of foundries.
Thanks to the precise control granted by the electrohydraulic system, this tool allows precise management of the quantity of collected material. This precision significantly reduces waste. Additionally, the clamshell grab designed for foundries is highly versatile, not limited to gathering a single type of material but adapting to diverse ones like foundry sand or metal scrap. This versatility contributes to enhanced operational efficiency. It also improves safety by enabling controlled handling, reducing the risk of spills and injuries.
Stemm's Electrohydraulic Clamshell Grab
Within Stemm's catalog, various suitable options are available for work in a foundry. The choice between them depends on the material density and sometimes the material itself.
Among ferroalloys based on manganese, aluminum, or silicon, the most suitable options are the 2CH-3.2 or 4CH-3.2 models for densities of 3.2 t/m³ (± 15%). These feature special HARDOX 500 closing lips made of wear-resistant manganese steel. With maximum penetration and compaction force, it allows complete fills; additionally, it has a sealed, pressurized container with an anti-condensation system. Its load safety operates at any inclination with low noise levels.
Regarding iron, the noteworthy models are the 2CH-2.8 - 4CH-2.8, with similar characteristics to the previous ones but designed for a density of 2.8 t/m³ (± 15%). There's also the electrohydraulic clamshell grab CHV 2.8, specifically intended for handling bulk materials of DENSITY 2.8 t/m³ (± 15%).
The effective use of clamshell grabs in foundries is directly associated with compliance with safety standards and applicable regulations, such as the ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management or the CE declaration of conformity, to which Stemm's electrohydraulic clamshell grabs adhere.
