In Breda, Combinatie Van der Ven – KWS is constructing a bus depot for the province of North Brabant. The new depot will be used for parking, charging and maintaining electric buses. With this project, the province is taking a sustainable step towards a safe, fast, and high-quality public transport network and moving closer to its goal of making regional public transportation more sustainable. The completion is scheduled for early 2025.
Van der Ven B.V. Aannemingsbedrijf has been in business for over 55 years and focuses on construction and infrastructure projects. The company’s motto is “making the world a better place,” and one of its goals is a zero-emission construction site. Therefore, the bus depot project is a perfect fit for the Brakel-based company.
Due to the construction site being adjacent to a nature reserve, nitrogen emissions are a challenge. As a result, NOX filters and electric equipment, such as the electric Sennebogen crane, are being used.
We asked Van der Ven’s crane operator about his experience working with the electric crane.
Have you worked with a Sennebogen crane before?
“No, I had never worked with a Sennebogen crane before. In November 2022, I was asked if I was interested in operating the new Sennebogen crane. I definitely wanted to give it a try. I’ve been working with another crane at Van der Ven since 2010. In 2016, I obtained my TCVT certificate (W4-01*) and in 2023 also the foundation papers (W4-03*).”
*Note:
TCVT W4-01 Mobile Crane Operator
TCVT W4-03 Large Foundation Machine Operator
What is your overall impression of the electric crane?
“My overall impression of the electric crane is good, actually beyond expectations. I was always anti-electric, but it works fantastically. The crane definitely meets expectations: the comfort, ease of operation, and visibility from the cabin are excellent.”
What differences are there compared to other electric machines?
“At Van der Ven, we have other electric machines from various brands, but so far, none with an app like this crane. You can see everything on it, from charging issues to the amount of time the machine has been charged.”
How long can the crane operate?
“If you stay in the same spot, you can easily work for a day and maybe even two. It depends a bit on the lifting tasks. If you’re setting up a steel structure, the battery capacity lasts longer. If you have to drive a lot, the battery capacity runs faster. But there’s always enough capacity left to keep working until the end of the day.”
What differences are experienced compared to the diesel version?
“Diesel or electric differences? I don’t notice any difference when operating it. Whether the diesel engine drives the pump or the electric motor does, I don’t notice any difference.”
Would you recommend the electric crane to others?
“I would definitely recommend the electric crane, but you do need a good power supply on the construction site. We were once out on a site where was no construction connection. Then you have to use a generator.”
What is your overall impression of Van den Heuvel?
“Van den Heuvel is a good company, customer-friendly, and always available for questions or if something comes up. They always call back, which isn’t always the case elsewhere.”
How would you describe the crane in one sentence?
“A very good product in every way: clear, easy to operate, and low maintenance.”
Are you interested in the electric Sennebogen 653 crawlercrane? Find more info: https://tinyurl.com/atczuput