Eichinger Mechanical Grab

Model 1562 | Crane-Suspended Kerb & Block Lifter | 3 Sizes Available | CE Marked | UKCA Compliant

The Eichinger 1562 Mechanical Grab is a heavy-duty, fully automatic crane-suspended lifting grab designed for the safe transportation and placement of precast concrete elements, kerbstones, blocks, and similar products. Built in Germany by Florian Eichinger GmbH, the 1562 features a robust steel profile with an adjustable clamping range to accommodate different load widths. The grab operates automatically, gripping the load when lifted and releasing when set down, with no manual intervention required during the lift cycle. Available in three sizes with safe working loads from 900 kg to 4,000 kg.

Technical Specifications

Key Features

• Fully Automatic Operation - the grab grips the load automatically when lifted by the crane and releases automatically when lowered to the ground. No manual clamping or unclamping is required during the lift cycle, reducing the time personnel spend near suspended loads.
• Adjustable Clamping Range - a telescopic square pipe with a locking jack latch allows the operator to quickly adjust the grab width to suit different load sizes. Set the clamping range approximately 5 cm wider than the load before lifting.
• Robust Steel Construction - built from heavy-duty steel profile to withstand the demands of daily use on construction sites, with a durable finish designed to resist wear and impact.
• Wide Range of Capacities - available in three models with safe working loads of 900 kg, 1,500 kg and 4,000 kg to suit everything from standard kerbstones to large precast concrete elements.
• Single Operator Use - designed to be operated by one person, reducing labour requirements and improving efficiency on site.
• Lateral Pressure Grip - the grab uses lateral clamping pressure to secure the load. This makes it suitable for a wide range of precast concrete products provided they can withstand the gripping force.
• Simple Connection - attaches to the crane hook via a single lift ring, making rigging quick and straightforward with no complex sling arrangements required.
• Guide Handles - fitted with handles to allow the operator to safely guide the grab and load into position close to ground level.

Suitable Applications

The Eichinger 1562 Mechanical Grab is designed for use on any construction site where precast concrete elements need to be lifted, transported, and placed by crane. It is commonly used for laying kerbstones on highway and road construction projects, positioning precast concrete blocks and barrier units, placing coping stones, lintels, and sills on building sites, handling paving slabs and large format concrete products, and positioning precast drainage and utility elements. The grab is suitable for use with tower cranes, mobile cranes, and any other hoisting equipment with adequate lifting capacity. Its adjustable clamping range makes it a versatile tool that can handle a wide variety of precast product sizes across different trades and site operations.

How to Use the Mechanical Grab

1. Connect the mechanical grab to the crane hoist using the lift ring. Confirm that the weight of the load does not exceed the safe working load of both the grab and the crane.
2. Adjust the clamping range before lifting. Push the jack latch downwards, slide the telescopic square pipe until the grab opening is approximately 5 cm wider than the load, then pull the jack latch up and move the square pipe back and forth until the latch locks into one of the adjustment holes.
3. Position the grab directly above the load and lower it slowly using the crane. The automatic open-close device will unlock when the grab is set on the ground.
4. Once the grab jaws are positioned around the load, lift steadily with the crane. The automatic locking mechanism will engage as soon as the load is raised, gripping the load securely.
5. Transport the load to its destination. Use the guide handles only to steer the grab into position, and only guide the load close to ground level. Never place hands or body parts between the grab jaws and the load.
6. At the destination, lower the grab carefully until the jaws touch the ground and the automatic open-close device unlocks, releasing the load.
7. Lift the unloaded grab clear of the placed element and return it for the next lift.

Warning: Never exceed the safe working load of the grab. Before lifting, always confirm that the load can withstand lateral clamping pressure. Do not use the grab on friable, cracked, or structurally compromised elements. Keep hands and body clear of the grab jaws at all times. Only use the guide handles to steer the grab, and only when the load is close to ground level. Ensure the work area is clear of personnel before commencing any lift. The grab must always be used in conjunction with your site safety policies and procedures.

Certification and Compliance

The Eichinger 1562 Mechanical Grab is CE marked in accordance with EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and is supplied with a UKCA certificate for the UK market. The grab is designed in conformance with official labour safety regulations covering the use of mechanical lifting equipment on construction sites. All units are manufactured under DIN ISO 9001:2015 quality management at Eichinger's own facility in Mühlhausen, Bavaria, and are independently tested by TÜV. An EC Declaration of Conformity is supplied with every unit.

Safety Information

• Never exceed the stated safe working load for the model being used.
• Before lifting any load, confirm that the material can withstand lateral clamping pressure without cracking or breaking.
• Always adjust the clamping range to suit the load before lifting. The opening should be approximately 5 cm wider than the load.
• Carry out a visual inspection of the grab before each use. Check the steel frame, jaws, jack latch, telescopic square pipe, lift ring, and automatic open-close mechanism for damage, wear, or malfunction.
• Keep hands, feet, and body clear of the grab jaws at all times during operation.
• Only use the guide handles to steer the grab and load. Never guide the load at height.
• Ensure the work area and lift zone are clear of personnel before commencing any lifting operation.
• Do not operate the grab if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or if you are feeling unwell.
• The following PPE must be worn when using the grab: hard hat, safety gloves, steel toecap boots, safety goggles, and hi-vis vest.
• Ensure the intended area of use is clear of overhead cables, power lines, and similar hazards before commencing operations.
• A risk assessment must be carried out prior to using this equipment.

Inspection and Maintenance

The Eichinger 1562 Mechanical Grab must be visually inspected before each use, checking the steel frame, grab jaws, lift ring, jack latch, telescopic square pipe, and automatic open-close mechanism for any signs of damage, wear, or corrosion. Under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER), the grab must undergo a thorough examination by a competent person at intervals not exceeding 12 months, or in accordance with an examination scheme drawn up by a competent person. All inspection records must be documented and retained on site. Check that the jack latch engages positively in the adjustment holes and that the telescopic square pipe moves freely. Confirm the automatic open-close mechanism operates correctly before each shift. Touch up any paint damage promptly to prevent corrosion. Store the grab under cover or sheeted when not in use for extended periods.

Choosing the Right Size

The 1562.1 with a 900 kg safe working load and 50 - 520 mm opening width is suited to standard kerbstones and smaller precast concrete elements commonly found on highway and footpath projects. The 1562.2 with a 1,500 kg safe working load and 0 - 750 mm opening width handles mid-range precast products including larger kerb units, coping stones, and block elements. The 1562.5 with a 4,000 kg safe working load and 0 - 650 mm opening width is designed for heavy precast elements such as large barrier units, Jersey barriers, and substantial concrete blocks.

Frequently Asked Questions