Scrap & Stone Grapple Tines: Hardfacing vs. Replacement?

The biggest problem with Scrap (Orange Peel) and Stone Grapples is that the tine tips melt and shorten due to friction. As the tine gets shorter, gripping ability decreases.

1. Hardfacing or Replacement?

When the tine wears out, you have two options:

• Hardfacing Welding: A temporary solution. The surface is filled with hardfacing electrodes. However, if the base metal is weak, the weld won't hold.
• Tip Replacement: The healthiest method. The worn tip is cut off and a new tip of Hardox 450/500 quality is welded in its place.

2. Importance of Using Hardox

Tines made of ordinary steel melt in 1 week during scrap loading. As HKM, we only use certified Swedish steel (Hardox) for grapple repairs and tip replacements.