A special project within this transition is the conversion of the 120-ton Sennebogen 6113 – also known within the company as “The Beast”. The machine was completely converted from diesel to electric by Van den Heuvel, including a large electric motor and a powerful battery pack. To be deployable even at locations without a power supply, a smart range extender has been added: an emergency generator that can both drive the hydraulics and charge the batteries. With this solution, the crane is completely future-proof – deployable at regular and grid congestion-sensitive locations, without sacrificing performance. A fine piece of custom work, in line with Cordeel’s broader vision on sustainable construction logistics and energy management.
The Sennebogen 6113 is now in full action on the Maasvlakte. We asked Jaap Hoekman (Head of Equipment Service) and Marc Bosma (machinist) for their first impressions.
What does this project entail, what is being built?
“A switching station that converts high voltage from wind farms to medium voltage. There is a shortage of power capacity in the Netherlands. This is a government project that contributes to the energy transition.”
Is a special construction method being used?
“Yes, the construction is tall, heavy and completely airtight.”
How long will the project take?
“The station should be operational by the end of 2026.”
What makes this project special?
“The scale and requirements make it unique – even on a global level.”
What tasks does the crane perform?
“The unloading and placement of heavy prefabricated concrete elements, such as columns and roof beams.”
How heavy are the elements being lifted?
“Between 26 and 28 tons, at a range of 14 to 26 meters.”
Are there any specific challenges?
“Certainly. The crane places heavy wall elements between existing columns, at a distance of about 20 meters – while the roof is already closed. That requires extreme precision.”
How does the charging of the machine work in practice?
“That’s going well. However, it would be useful if the machine could be charged via the undercarriage, so that the superstructure can continue to rotate.”
Why was this crane chosen?
“The Sennebogen 6113 is strong, heavily built and very maneuverable – truly a beast of a crane. Ideal for this type of work.”
Does Cordeel have other Sennebogen cranes in its fleet?
“Yes, we also have a 640R HD, a 683E and two 643Es.”
Is this the first electric crane in your fleet?
“Yes, this is our first electric crane. An electric version was chosen because of our sustainability ambition and the demand from clients.”
We also speak with Marc Bosma, the machinist. Marc has been working on a Sennebogen crane for over 25 years. First 20 years on a 640R HD and then on the 6113 which was purchased in 2021.
What are your experiences with this electric crane?
“Very positive: it is strong, maneuverable and robust. It runs smoothly, very quietly.”
What is the difference with a diesel version?
“The electric crane is quieter and faster in response.”
How long can you work with a full battery?
“Between 8 and 10 hours. This obviously depends on what activities are being carried out with it. If it is driven a lot, it consumes more power and the battery will be empty sooner.”
Would you recommend the crane to others?
“Definitely. It’s a super machine!”
Curious and want to know more about this conversion? We have posted about this before, look here.
Interested in converting your machine? View here which projects we have already done.
