Customization, automation and compact emission-free solutions

Foundation machines that work fully automated, compact installations that can cope with tight construction sites and more and more possibilities for emission-free work: Lebotec in Wijchen continues to innovate. "We continue to do what we are good at: building machines that precisely meet the customer's requirements," says co-owner Rick van Oostwaard.

Traditional pile driving with steel tubes is no longer allowed in many places, so techniques such as screw injection and vibration-free working are gaining ground. Van Oostwaard: "We have now developed various types, large and small, with which we respond to that demand. Consider CD piles, where the steel tube remains in the ground and is filled with concrete. That is vibration-free and suits the stricter requirements on many projects."

Customized machines

At Lebotec, customers can still buy customized machines. "Initially, we come up with a concept ourselves," Van Oostwaard explains. "We work that out in 3D to the point where we know it's buildable. Only then do we go to the customer with it. We also notice that 3D designs capture the imagination much more; sometimes drawings on LinkedIn get more responses than photos of a completed machine."

Automation of the entire process

A key focus is the complete automation of the foundation process. With mini-vibro piles, widely used under distribution centers, the operator can suffice with driving to the picket and pressing the start button. Van Oostwaard: "The machine itself brings the tube to depth, automatically pours the right amount of concrete and pulls the tube back up. The operator only has to drive to the next position." Grout units and screw injection pile machines can also be equipped with automatic systems.

Emission-free where it can be done

Lebotec builds both diesel- and electric-powered machines. The demand for emission-free equipment is growing, but it is still very expensive, notes Van Oostwaard. "We do get demand from time to time, but not yet on a scale that we are fully committed to it. Also, the availability of hydrogen engines, for example, remains a bit behind unfortunately." However, Lebotec does continue to develop electric drives and makes machines suitable for connection to external generators or battery packs.

Compact and versatile

News reports on the Lebotec Web site show that the company is betting heavily on compact and versatile machines, such as the recently introduced LBT-CD45 drill. This combines a hydraulically extendable undercarriage with a lifting jib for positioning steel pipes. Thanks to its compact size, the machine can also operate in urban areas where space is limited.

Continuity and professionalism

Since 2022, Van Oostwaard has been co-owner alongside Jacques Bouten, who is still active in the company. "Jacques can't let go," Van Oostwaard laughs. "But we are working on a phased transfer so that continuity is guaranteed. Because whether it's a small machine for foundation repair or a large crane for new construction projects, we make sure it fits our customer's work perfectly."