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To make innovative road markings in the Netherlands safer and more sustainable, Coateq and Van Velsen Reflectielijnen are joining forces. As the exclusive importer of road marking materials from Swarco, Coateq works on innovative solutions for road markings. For its part, Van Velsen Reflectielijnen is the market leader in the application of road markings in the Netherlands.
"By combining our knowledge and expertise, we bring together various disciplines and guarantee smarter markings with the aim of keeping society moving in a safe and environmentally friendly way," said Emiel de Bruin, general manager of Van Velsen Reflection Lines (VVR). "Because we previously entered into a partnership with Germany's Hofmann Road Marking Systems, a leading machine builder for applying road markings, the triangle is complete." Henk van Leeuwen, owner of Coateq, adds: "A good product has to be processed in the right way to create added value. You can apply a good product with a nice machine, but the applicator also has a crucial role. That is why it is important to optimize all disciplines."
"We are a participation of BAM, KWS, DURA VERMEER, which are among the largest road construction companies in the Netherlands. In addition, as a market leader ourselves, we have many entrances to various municipalities and provinces," De Bruin continued. "That makes us unique and interesting to Coateq and Swarco. Especially with innovative products, it is important to sit around the table with all parties at an early stage." De Bruin cites the innovative Koudplast as an example. A product that is on the rise because better reflection can be achieved with Koudplast agglomerate markings in particular under wet weather conditions. "But it makes certain demands on both the machine that has to apply it and the applicator. It is important to know at an early stage what the preconditions are, consult closely and test so that no technical limitations stand in the way. In this way we all innovate along with the demand from the market."
Research shows that more than half of all accidents in Europe occur during darkness with 1 in 3 cases involving a combination of dark and wet. Highly visible road markings during rain and darkness are a primary need to improve the safety of road users. Van Leeuwen: "But think also of autonomous driving, an emerging development, where lineation plays a major role. That whole technological development literally does not come into its own if the road markings are not properly visible. This can be improved by increasing the reflection. When you combine Koudplast with glass beads such as SWARCO SOLIDPLUS 100, for example, you generate a reflection improvement of 300%. And that at an investment of only 20%. The Province of Gelderland initiated this development; in addition to increased visibility, savings can be made on lighting in outlying areas."
"By continuing to innovate, improve and innovate, we aim to improve the function of road markings, extend their service life and reduce costs for our clients," says De Bruin. "In addition, we want to reduce the environmental impact. That starts with working circularly within all disciplines. Also with the application of Koudplast where, unlike Thermoplast, lessCO2 emissions take place. But highly visible road markings have the added benefit that savings can also be made on roadside lighting." He concludes, "Our road markings provide clarity and safety. For every application and for every location, together with our partners, we offer a suitable solution."
