Pioneering Sustainability: The World’s First Fully Electric Large Foundation Rig

The F4800E, developed by Hydrauvision and Fundex Equipment, represents a groundbreaking advancement in civil engineering. This fully electric large foundation rig is based on the robust design of the diesel-powered F4800 foundation rig. With a leader length of 48 meters and a full-length drilling torque of 500 kNm, the F4800E meets the demanding requirements of large-scale foundation projects. Its ability to deliver a daily energy consumption of up to 2000 kWh ensures it can handle intensive operations while maintaining high performance standards.

One of the primary engineering achievements of the F4800E is its flexible power supply design. The rig operates with Danfoss-supplied permanent magnet machines and drive converters, making it fully electrically driven. The integrated 150 kWh battery pack is pivotal for peak shaving during regular operation and storing regenerated energy from the winches. This innovative approach allows the rig to function entirely emissions-free when connected to a power source.

However, recognizing that not all construction sites have immediate access to power sources, Hydrauvision incorporated a DC-generator set with a diesel engine to supplement the battery pack. This setup prevents inefficient peak loads and ensures continuous operation. The rig’s ability to switch between different energy sources, such as hydrogen, formic acid, e-methanol, or direct grid connection, highlights its adaptability and future-proof design, ensuring long-term sustainability and investment value.

The F4800E sets a new standard in sustainability for the construction industry. By reducing energy consumption by 25-40%, depending on the foundation process, the rig significantly lowers its carbon footprint. The rig’s electric motor contributes to a 90% noise reduction compared to traditional diesel-powered machines, a crucial benefit for urban construction projects where noise pollution is a significant concern.

The real-world success of the F4800E was demonstrated during its first commercial project in September 2023 in Rotterdam. The rig installed over 250 foundation piles for the Canvas Living residential building project, operating alongside a conventional F3500 foundation rig for comparison. The F4800E’s robust performance, coupled with its reduced energy consumption and noise pollution, showcased its potential to revolutionize the construction industry.

In a nutshell the benefits of using F4800E fully electric large foundation rig are:

The F4800E fully electric large foundation rig is a testament to the innovative spirit and engineering excellence of Hydrauvision and Fundex Equipment. Its flexible design, high performance, and substantial sustainability benefits position it as a pioneering force in the transition towards greener construction practices. As the construction industry continues to seek ways to reduce its environmental impact, the F4800E stands as a beacon of what is achievable through dedication to sustainable engineering and forward-thinking design.