Hitachi ZW310-6 proves productive for Jan De Nul

Jan De Nul, one of the largest contractors in the Benelux region, has purchased its first Hitachi wheel loader. The ZW310-6 is being utilised for general material handling tasks at a demanding soil treatment centre in Liège, Belgium.  

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Specialising in dredging and marine construction activities, Jan De Nul is also active in the offshore industry, notably in oil, gas and renewable energy. Its environmental subsidiary – Envisan – is operating the four-hectare site in Liège, which treats over 150,000 tonnes of material annually. Its proximity to the city’s waterways makes it ideal for receiving goods and shipping.

The ZW310-6 was delivered in October 2016 by Hitachi’s authorised dealer in Belgium, Luyckx, but the two companies have worked closely together since 1985. Since then, Jan De Nul has consistently invested in Hitachi construction machinery, from the original Zaxis series up to the most recent -6 models.

A strong partnership

Jan De Nul subjects every new machine to an intensive assessment process as Operations Manager for the Technical Dept. Civil and Environmental Works, Pieterjan Versteele explains: “The Belgian construction market is extremely competitive. As such, we need to continually invest in reliable machines that help us to achieve maximum effectiveness.

“The invaluable support we receive from Luyckx is also hugely beneficial. Our relationship is built entirely on trust and they actively listen to our requirements. We have open lines of communication, and as a result, it is a win-win situation for both parties.”  

Incredible breakout force

The ZW310-6 is at the heart of the activity at the Liège site, and mainly used for moving piles of decontaminated particulate in a central warehouse. Due to the constant flow of deliveries and departures on site, the wheel loader works continuously, and in confined spaces.

“We have chosen well with the ZW310-6, and it is the perfect-sized machine for this site,” says operator Christophe Warnier. “Not only is it precise, but it offers an incredible breakout force. In my opinion, the cab is particularly spacious and the visibility is excellent. I was pleasantly surprised by the Hitachi wheel loader, and didn’t expect such a high level of quality.”