Built on more than 100 years of experience
For more than a century, we have been turning steel into dependable productivity for dry bulk terminals around the world. Long before a grab reaches your quay, every Nemag design is engineered, built and inspected against documented standards.
Our focus is not only on delivering the right product, but on supporting our customers throughout the entire lifecycle: from design and delivery to operation, maintenance and continuity. Behind every Nemag grab is a documented and traceable process. From research and development to certified build procedures, from material selection and inspection to long-term continuity, each step contributes to predictable performance and safe operation over time.
Research & Development
From optimal grab geometry to verified calculations
Certified build processes
ISO-aligned procedures and qualified specialists
Quality &
Inspection
High-quality materials and a 60-point inspection
Inspection
Service &
Continuity
Parts, manuals and support throughout the grab’s lifetime
Continuity
Research & Development
Optimal and verified grab designs
Research and development at Nemag is driven by two sources: engineering principles and operational experience. From a technical perspective, we analyze load cases, geometry, and structural behavior using verified calculations and Finite Element Analysis (FEA). In parallel, feedback from customers, operators, and internal production teams is used to continuously refine designs.
This approach results in both new grab concepts and ongoing improvements to existing designs. Performance, maintainability, and wear-life are optimized while ensuring the grab remains manufacturable, reliable, and suitable for daily operation in demanding terminal environments.
Engineered for stable cycles
Before production starts, we optimize the grab geometry: opening width, shell profile, weight distribution, and load paths. Using defined load cases and Finite Element Analysis (FEA), we assess how the structure behaves under operational loads. This results in stable handling, predictable filling and emptying, and consistent cycle times on the crane.
Designed for easy maintenance
Grabs are designed so inspections and maintenance can be carried out safely and efficiently. Pins, hinges, and wear parts are positioned for direct access, while standardized components simplify replacement. This limits downtime at the quay and supports both customer maintenance teams and service partners.
Built for long wear-life
High-load and high-wear areas are identified early in the design phase and reinforced where required. Suitable steel grades, plate thicknesses, and wear parts are selected to control wear in critical zones. This slows degradation over time and extends the interval between major repairs or overhauls.
Build processes
Certified processes and qualified staff
Quality during production is safeguarded through documented procedures and continuous control. Nemag operates under an ISO 9001 quality management system and applies ISO 3834-2 certified welding processes. Internal audits verify that procedures are followed, while measuring equipment is periodically calibrated to ensure accuracy.
We actively work with suppliers to maintain consistent quality and to improve processes where possible. Each grab is released only after all production and inspection steps have been completed and approved.
Materials & Inspection
Quality materials and thorough inspection
The performance and durability of a grab are directly influenced by material selection and inspection discipline. Nemag primarily works with high-quality Western European steels and approved suppliers. In high-wear areas, Hardox® 450 HB is applied to extend wear-life under abrasive conditions.
The 60-point inspection
Every grab undergoes more than 60 registered inspection checks during the manufacturing process and Final Acceptance Test. These checks cover material certificates, weld quality, dimensions, and functional performance. All results are documented and verified before the grab leaves the workshop.
The EN standards
Nemag grabs comply with the EC Machinery Directive (2006/42/EG) and relevant EN standards, including EN 12100-1, EN 12100-2, EN 13001-1, EN 13001-2, and EN 13001-3-1.
More on material quality and inspection
For engineering teams and asset managers, transparency and documentation are essential. Below are common quality-related topics we are frequently asked about.
Yes. Every grab includes an Inspection & Test Plan covering the entire order process, from material intake to final acceptance.
A complete Manufacturing Data Book is supplied, including material certificates, inspection records, welding documentation, and test results.
ATEX-related testing can be performed on request, depending on the application and grab configuration.
Welding is carried out under ISO 3834-2 requirements by qualified welders using documented procedures, supported by inspections and audits.
Optimized performance
Customer projects demonstrate how documented quality processes translate into predictable performance, reduced downtime, and long-term operational reliability.
SMT Shipping
"Our handling speed increased from 1,000 to 1,250 tons per hour. The NemaX paid for itself more than four times in its first year. "
VLI Pecém
"We now unload a ship in four days instead of five. Savings in demurrage costs are considerable, to say the least."
Awarded for productivity and innovation
Our patented technological improvements have been recognized with several industry and non-industry awards, including IBJ, the Red Dot Award, and a top-20 ranking among the most innovative Dutch companies (SME) by the Dutch Chamber of Commerce.
Productivity & InnovationPeace of mind
all the way from delivery to support
Quality assurance at Nemag extends well beyond delivery. Long-term availability of spare parts, comprehensive manuals, and technical support ensures continuity throughout the full operational life of every grab.
Documentation & guidance
Each grab is delivered with comprehensive manuals, inspection guidelines, and welding instructions. Combined with the manufacturing data book, this documentation provides full transparency and supports safe operation, maintenance, and repairs.
Service & Maintenance
From commissioning to years of operation, we support our customers throughout the full lifecycle of the grab. Our service teams provide technical assistance, inspections, and guidance whenever needed, helping operators keep performance predictable over time.
Spare parts availability
All spare parts remain available throughout the entire lifetime of the grab. This ensures repairs, replacements, and upgrades can be carried out without uncertainty, even many years after delivery.
More on how we
assure quality
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100 Years of Passion for Performance at Nemag

How switching to an electric arc furnace affects your grab productivity
We ensure quality and support
Questions about quality, certification, inspection, or documentation? Our quality specialists are available to discuss your application and provide clear, practical answers.
We're here to help you make the right choice for your operation.
Martine Dekker - Grootveld,
Account manager