Posted inMachinery

Caterpillar unveils design refinements to grapples with new series

The new Cat GSV520 and GSV520 GC orange-peel grapples feature a new rotation design and vertical cylinders, and are available in a five-tine shell configuration

Caterpillar unveils design refinements to grapples with new series
Caterpillar unveils design refinements to grapples with new series

US-headquartered construction machinery manufacturer, Caterpillar, has announced the launch of its new GSV-series grapples.

The company revealed in a statement that the new Cat GSV520 and GSV520 GC orange-peel grapples feature a new rotation design and vertical cylinders, and are available in a five-tine shell configuration, in closed and semi-closed versions.

The new grapples replace the GSM25-series grapples and are purpose-built for Cat MH3022, MH3024, and MH3026 wheel material handlers.

According to the manufacturer, the new series boasts high-grade, impact-resistant steel construction designed to protect vulnerable areas, such as hydraulic cylinders, which have been redesigned to provide added protection for the cylinder rod and to ensure quicker grapple opening time.

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Meanwhile, hardened pins and lubricated bushings are used in all pivot points for greater durability, and tines have replaceable, cast tips of BHN 445-555 material for wear-resistance.

Caterpillar added that the diameter of the pin at the main hinge point for both models has been significantly increased, and that the GSV520 features a redesigned bushing at the hinge point.

Solid-hinge-point construction and more robust end stops reportedly promote durability, while a solid-pin design keeps mounting brackets in an upright position for ease of installation.

Other features of the GSV520 include a standard lifting eye on the bottom of the housing and an HR rotator that reduces internal restrictions, resulting in lower fuel consumption.

Caterpillar further noted that both new models can be used for a wide range of materials, including shredded scrap, long structural beams, car bodies, and solid waste at recycling and transfer stations.