Continuous rotation hydraulic grapple

摘要

An upper head connector for support from a crane boom is provided and has a depending head journaled therefrom for reversible continuous rotation relative thereto about an upstanding axis. A rotator (motor) is supported from the head connector and includes an upper portion supported from the head connector and a lower rotatable portion supported from the upper portion for reversible continuous rotation relative thereto about an axis at least substantially coinciding with the first mentioned axis. Connecting structure is provided establishing a driving connection between the lower portion of the rotator and a lower level portion of the head for rotary drive of the latter by the rotator independent of support of any appreciable downward loading of the weight of the head or a load supported therefrom on the rotator lower portion. Further, grapple jaw structure is pivotally supported from the head for selective angular displacement relative thereto and is actuated by fluid cylinders interconnected between the grapple jaw structure and the head. The upper and lower rotator portions include structure defining fluid pressure passages extending therebetween and for continuously communicating a fluid pressure source with jaw structure actuating hydraulic cylinders.