Looking to the future, VDL Mast Solutions expects that the demand for refurbished masts will only increase, as more companies and governments embrace sustainable solutions to stimulate the circular economy.
Despite the absence of VDL Bus at the largest global exhibition Innotrans, it was still possible to meet a representative of VDL Mast Solutions at the stand of one of the leading manufacturing companies. Eric Janssen, director at VDL Mast Solutions, was present to share the latest innovations of the company, with a focus on their newest product: the 'smart mast'. This project, in which VDL Groep is taking the lead, forms the core of a new international ecosystem.
“At the moment, we can’t complain about our order portfolio,” says Janssen. “There is even interest from Israel, although that is a bit more complicated given the current developments in the region.” The smart mast, the production of which is now in full swing, fits in with VDL Groep’s aim to develop high-quality, sustainable products that improve the infrastructure of cities and countries.
Together with the renowned design agency Brandes en Meurs Industrial Design, VDL Metaal has developed a revolutionary concept for a sustainable bus shelter, which fully meets the increasing demand for environmentally friendly and circular solutions. This innovative bus shelter is made from as much recycled material as possible, which not only contributes to the reduction of waste, but also paves the way for a product that can be easily separated and reused at the end of its life. This makes the bus shelter not only sustainable in use, but also in its entire life cycle.
What makes this bus shelter special is the well-thought-out design, which integrates transparent outer corners. This approach minimizes the use of material in the supporting structure, without compromising the strength or aesthetics of the bus shelter. The transparent design creates a light, open structure that fits perfectly in modern, sustainable urban environments. In addition, the design also offers safety, because passengers are clearly visible from every angle, which contributes to the feeling of safety in public transport.
Another impressive feature of the shelter is the versatility of the roof. Customers can opt for a roof with sedum, which not only gives a green and lively appearance, but also contributes to better drainage and insulation. In addition, there is the option of choosing a glass roof, or glass with integrated PV cells. These solar cells ensure that the shelter not only provides shade, but also becomes a sustainable energy source. These types of solutions make the shelter self-sufficient in energy consumption, for example for lighting or digital information screens.
masts
VDL Mast Solutions, part of the VDL Groep, specializes in the design, production and installation of high-quality masts. These are not only used for street lighting and sports fields, but also in increasingly innovative applications, such as the smart mast equipped with sensors and other technologies to collect data and make cities smarter.
What sets VDL apart is the use of recyclable steel and a sustainable coating for their masts. This approach significantly extends the lifespan of the products and at the same time reduces maintenance costs. They take care of the entire process, from design and production to installation and maintenance. Recently, the company even executed a large order for the HTM, in which they gave more than twenty overhead line masts a 'second life'.
The collaboration with HTM underlines the growing trend of refurbishing within the industry. These masts, some of which had been in use for more than forty years, have been carefully refurbished and recoated, so that they once again meet modern technical requirements. After the functional adjustments, such as new doors and cable holes, they have given the masts a durable coating, which protects them against all weather conditions.
refurbish
This fits within the broader ambition of the Dutch government to be fully circular by 2050. An intermediate step in this process is to make the Dutch economy 2030% circular by 50. VDL Mast Solutions is responding to this by refurbishing old masts, a process that contributes to reducing the use of raw materials and at the same time extends the lifespan of products. Refurbishing masts means that used masts are given a second life without changing owner. This process is not only sustainable, but can also offer economic benefits in the long term, especially for larger or heavier masts, where the ratio between material and required labor is more favorable.
VDL Mast Solutions started in 1947 in Oss in Brabant with contracting activities, earthworks and the installation of cable networks. The first production of light towers was established for own use. In 1966 the start was made with what is now the core activity of VDL Mast Solutions, namely the production of mast constructions. From this start, VDL Mast Solutions has grown as a leading producer in the field of various types of masts.
When refurbishing, the zinc layer on the masts is retained, as removing it entails additional costs and environmental impact. They do not weld or grind galvanised masts, because that is not only technically complex, but also environmentally undesirable. The zinc layer provides natural protection against corrosion, and they want to retain that as much as possible.
VDL Mast Solutions has developed an efficient system to classify masts into categories, depending on their condition. This categorization determines which activities need to be carried out. This not only ensures a streamlined refurbishment process, but also manageable costs. After refurbishment, the masts have an expected lifespan of at least 25 years, provided they are properly maintained. In addition, they are provided with a CE mark again, which shows that they comply with European safety and environmental regulations.
Looking ahead, VDL Mast Solutions expects the demand for refurbished masts to only increase, as more and more companies and governments embrace sustainable solutions to stimulate the circular economy. VDL is determined to play a leading role in this, both nationally and internationally.
