Home > Cases > Environment & Recycling > Telehandler for Scrap Metal Sorting and Loading in Recycling Yard

Telehandler for Scrap Metal Sorting and Loading in Recycling Yard

Telehandler for Scrap Metal Sorting and Loading in Recycling Yard
Telehandler for Scrap Metal Sorting and Loading in Recycling Yard
Telehandler for Scrap Metal Sorting and Loading in Recycling Yard
This case study describes how an HT4018 telehandler supports scrap metal sorting and loading in a recycling yard where mixed ferrous and non-ferrous materials must be handled quickly and safely. By combining fork handling with grapple and bucket attachments, the telehandler helps operators move irregular scrap loads with better control and less manual labor.
Industry / Application:
Metal Recycling & Waste Sorting Yard Operations
Equipment Model(s):
1 × HT4018 Telehandler (4 Ton, 18 m Lift Height, Forks + Grapple/Bucket Attachment)

Customer & Project Background:

In a metal recycling yard, an HT4018 telehandler is used to sort, stack and load scrap metal and mixed waste materials. The machine moves bulky items between collection, processing and shipping areas, helping the yard keep operations organized and efficient.

With a 4 ton capacity, 18 m lift height and interchangeable attachments, the telehandler helps sort irregular scrap, build stable stockpiles and load outbound trucks. This makes it a practical solution for busy recycling and waste handling operations.

Customer & Yard Background

The customer operates a metal recycling facility that receives, sorts and processes scrap materials including steel, aluminum and mixed metal waste from industrial and construction sources.

The site includes intake zones, sorting areas, baling or shredding stations and a loading yard for outbound shipments. Because incoming scrap varies widely in size, shape and weight, the handling equipment must adapt to different material types throughout the day.

Challenges

Scrap metal loads are often irregular, sharp-edged and inconsistent in weight, making it difficult to lift and move safely without proper attachments.

Sorting different material categories required equipment that could quickly switch between forks, grapples and buckets depending on the task.

The yard had uneven ground and congested sorting lanes, so the operator needed a maneuverable machine with strong visibility and reach.

Loading scrap onto trucks or containers demanded stable lifting to avoid spillage, tipping or damage to the vehicle during transfer.

Equipment Solution from HAMAC:

HAMAC supplied an HT4018 telehandler fitted with pallet forks and a grapple/bucket attachment for recycling yard work. The telehandler combines telescopic reach with strong lifting capacity, making it suitable for handling mixed scrap materials across the site.

HT4018 provides a 4 ton rated capacity, an 18 m lift height and a rugged chassis that performs well in a recycling yard with uneven terrain and mixed stockpiles. The quick-attach system allows the operator to switch tools based on the material being handled.

Application on Site

At the intake area, the telehandler unloads incoming scrap and moves it to designated sorting zones based on material type. This keeps the receiving area clear and supports a continuous processing flow.

For sorting, HT4018 uses the grapple attachment to separate and stack ferrous and non-ferrous scrap, while the bucket handles smaller mixed debris. The operator adjusts boom height and reach to build organized piles without overloading storage areas.

When materials are ready for shipment, the telehandler transfers sorted scrap from the yard to the loading zone and positions loads for truck or container pickup. This reduces handling steps and speeds up outbound logistics.

The telehandler also assists with yard housekeeping, moving empty containers, pallets and processing byproducts between different work zones to maintain a clean and efficient site.

Safety & Operating Practices

Operators inspect each load for sharp edges, unstable shapes and excessive weight before lifting, selecting the correct attachment to match the material type.

Because scrap piles can shift unexpectedly, the crew maintains low travel speeds and uses spotters when working near sorting lanes or loading areas. Communication protocols are followed during all lifting and loading tasks.

Routine inspection of tyres, attachment pins, boom components and hydraulic systems helps ensure reliable operation in a yard environment exposed to dust, debris and heavy daily use.

Results & Benefits

Using the HT4018 telehandler for scrap metal sorting and loading improves yard throughput by reducing manual handling and accelerating material flow.

The operation gains better control over sorting accuracy and loading stability, which helps reduce spillage and material loss during transfer.

The machine's lifting strength, attachment versatility and maneuverability make recycling yard operations smoother, safer and more productive.

Need a Similar Solution?

"If you have projects with similar lifting requirements, our team can recommend the right HAMAC telehandler or forklift configuration."

Previous Post
Efficient Earthwork Solutions: Why Wheeled Excavators are the Top Choice for ...
Next Post
Why the Right Road Roller Makes All the Difference in Your Construction Project

Product Recommendation

Get in-
touch with us

Please fill out the form, and we can satisfy any of your needs including equipment selection, scheme design, technical support, or after-sales service. We will contact you as soon as possible.

WeChat QR

WeChat

WhatsApp QR

WhatsApp