Multipurpose foundation machine

Van den Heuvel Werkendam is mainly known as an importer of Junttan piling machines, but also designs and builds its own machines. The most recent machine is the VDH-MP60, a multipurpose foundation machine that can be widely used for varying foundation work. The first two units are currently already being used successfully by two foundation specialists.

"In the Netherlands a lot of piling is still done, while in Belgium in particular other techniques are used," says Marc Timmerman of Van den Heuvel Werkendam. "Many companies are looking for piling machines that are adaptable and can be automated. Reason for us to develop in-house the VDH-MP60, a machine that in terms of size (60 tons without attachment) falls into a class where a lot of work is done. Not too big but certainly not too small either. The VDH-MP60 is versatile and can both drive and displace piles, as well as drill mortar screw piles and vibrate mini-vibro piles."

According to Timmerman, the VDH-MP60 has a modular nature. "The base of the machine is always identical, i.e. the motor, undercarriage, pumps and plc control. The front of the machine we build customer specific and is also controlled by a separate plc control. Think of a vibrolan, vibrator or drill motor, etc. The extensive automation possibilities are unique. For example, we can fully automate standard operations, but the machine also provides feedback on operation. The software is remotely readable and automatically gives a notification if a process deviates." 

Van den Heuvel Werkendam delivered the first VDH-MP60 to Van Berlo late last year, with the machine configured as a mini-vibro rack. Early this year, De Waal put a machine into service for installing soil displacement piles. Basically, they are the same machines, but equipped on the front end for a different process.