Mecalac proves itself as a compact foundation crane

CivielTech deploys versatile 15MC to install steel sheet piles

With the delivery of a very special Mecalac 15MC to CivielTech, Ahlmann Netherlands once again shows itself to be a specialist in customization. The machine is used by the customer with a vibrating block, to install sheet piling in places that are difficult to reach.

The versatile tool carrier may immediately prove itself on the new construction project Vechtvoorde in Breukelen, where CivielTech has been asked to construct approximately 140 meters of shoring for a branch of the river De Vecht using 5.5 meters long steel sheet piles. It was right up the Mecalac 15MC's alley, which was equipped with an ICE vibratory block with 395 kN of impact force. Machinist and co-owner Dirk-Willem Hop is a big fan of the French brand, which is distributed in the Netherlands and Flanders by Ahlmann Netherlands.

Having previously commissioned a Mecalac 10MCR, this time the choice fell on the slightly larger 15MC. "We were looking for a very compact machine to install steel sheet piles up to 8 meters long," Dirk-Willem explains the choice. "Then you quickly think of a special, while this Mecalac has all the necessary specifications ex-factory. This is not only by far the most compact foundation machine in its class in the Netherlands, but even in the whole of Europe. So truly unique."

Clear vision 

According to Dirk-Willem, the Mecalac causes surprised faces on construction sites. "This vibrating block often hangs from a 30-ton crane, so when we arrive with a machine that weighs only half as much, the first reaction is: this can't be! But once we get going, it turns out to work perfectly." The French manufacturer therefore distinguishes itself with a clear vision of innovation, compactness and multifunctionality.

This manufacturer's individuality is expressed in machines that are often just that little bit "different," but at the same time are very well thought out and of high quality. CivielTech prefers Mecalac's special boom construction with offset function to the regular two-piece excavator arm. "This is ideal for us, because otherwise the boom has to be specially modified to raise it straight up. The Mecalac arm offers a lot of added value."

Interesting options

Another plus is that the 15MC's rich standard equipment (including air conditioning and sliding door) can be expanded with numerous interesting factory options. For example, the 15-tonner is equipped with 500 mm wide Bridgestone Geogrip rubber tracks instead of steel tracks, so there is no need to lay driving plates every time. Furthermore, an S60 quick coupler was chosen and CivielTech had the machine equipped with a 450 kg heavier counterweight.

To control the equipment, Ahlmann Netherlands has fitted a vibrating block function. Thanks to this preferred valve, the high-frequency ICE 428B is continuously supplied with 160 l/min of oil flow and the operator does not experience any hindrance when lifting the boom at the same time. Despite its small size, the 15MC is a strong, productive and durable machine. With 100 kW/139 hp, the Deutz four-cylinder diesel engine is the most powerful in its class and meets the most stringent emission requirements (Stage V).