Vibrating Dross Grab

by | Aug 2, 2021 | Hot Dip Galvanizing, Blog

Tackling Dross in Hot-Dip Galvanizing

In a hot-dip galvanizing line, dross—the iron-zinc alloy particles that float or settle out of the molten zinc bath—poses a constant challenge. Left unchecked, dross not only clogs kettles and damages cranes, but also drives up zinc consumption and overall galvanizing costs. Regular, thorough removal of bottom and floating dross is essential for maintaining consistent coating quality and preventing premature furnace or kettle failures.

What Is a Vibrating Dross Grab?

The ANI Metal Vibrating Dross Grab is engineered specifically for high-efficiency dross extraction in industrial galvanizing kettles. Unlike manual skimmers or fixed suction systems, our vibratory grab:

  • Picks up both floating and bottom-settled dross

  • Shakes off excess zinc back into the bath

  • Delivers recovered material directly to your ash-recovery or recycling stream

Thanks to its vibrating action, it minimizes zinc carry-out and maximizes dross yield—so you reclaim more zinc, waste less, and keep your production line running smoothly.

Key Features & Technical Highlights

Adjustable Vibration Frequency
Fine-tune oscillation speed (up to 500 Hz) to suit different kettle sizes and production rates.

Wear-Resistant Grabbing Tines
Hardened steel claws stand up to abrasive dross, delivering long service life with minimal maintenance.

Sealed-Hydraulic Drive
Robust hydraulic diaphragm ensures reliable performance in high-temperature, corrosive zinc vapors.

Quick-Change Mounting
Modular flanges fit standard crane hooks or fixed DROSS-GRAB arms—installation takes under an hour.

Integrated Level-Sensor Option
Automate activation when your kettle reaches a preset dross-accumulation threshold.

Operational Benefits

  • Lower Zinc Loss
    By vibrating excess zinc back into the bath before dumping, you recover up to 15 % more zinc compared to non-vibrating grabs.

  • Reduced Downtime
    Faster, more thorough cleaning intervals mean fewer unplanned line shutdowns for kettle repairs.

  • Improved Coating Consistency
    Clean baths prevent localized “hot spots” and ensure uniform zinc immersion for every load.

  • Labor Savings
    Semi-automated operation cuts manual skimming time by up to 60 %, freeing operators for other critical tasks.

Installation & Maintenance Tips

Position the Grab so the tines enter 30 – 40 mm below the kettle surface for optimal collection.

Check Hydraulic Lines monthly for wear or leaks—use high-temp zinc-resistant hoses.

Inspect Grabbing Claws quarterly; replace any blade showing > 2 mm of wear.

Clean the Unit weekly by running vibration at no-load above the bath to shake off build-up.

A simple preventative maintenance routine keeps your grab running at peak efficiency for years.

Maximizing Your ROI

Investing in the ANI Metal Vibrating Dross Grab typically pays for itself in under 12 months through:

  • Zinc savings (recovering more metal)

  • Reduced kettle repairs and replacement

  • Lower labor and maintenance costs

Our customers routinely report a 20 – 30 % reduction in overall galvanizing operating expenses within the first year.

You can click the link as well to learn more about all the hot dip galvanizing factory equipments provided by ANI Metal.