12 and 20-ton Platform Trucks for Alfen

PTB Special Products recently developed two platform trucks for Alfen and delivered them. Alfen approached PTB to explore the possibility of compact heavy transport vehicles to enhance logistics in and around the production line of transformer stations. PTB subsequently designed two electric platform trucks.

Image: Edward Havekes and Theo Gijzen from Alfen during the delivery of the PTB EPD200.

Customized for 20 tons

Alfen is a producer of transformer stations, charging stations, and energy storage systems, playing a crucial role in the global energy transition. For various applications at Alfen, PTB developed machines with a lifting capacity of 12 and 20 tons. Both machines are of the "walk-along" type, with the most frequently used controls conveniently located on the machine's steering arm.

Clear view with a camera

The platform of the machines is equipped with a camera connected to the monitor installed on the dashboard. This provides the driver with a clear view of what is in front of the machine, even when large objects such as a 20-ton transformer station are on the platform.

Battery-powered

Both the drive and hydraulic systems are powered by maintenance-free alternating current motors supplied by 48-volt batteries. The speed of lifting and lowering the platform is precisely controlled with fingertip buttons, eliminating unexpected jolts during the movement of transformer stations. An indicator on the dashboard shows when the platform is in the lowest or highest position. Signal lights along the sides of the machine alert the surroundings when the machine is in use.

Image: The PTB EPD200 platform truck is extensively tested with 20,000 kg test weights.

About Alfen

Alfen is a publicly listed Dutch company that has been active as a supplier of systems for the electricity grid since the mid-nineteenth century. Alfen manufactures transformer stations, charging stations for electric cars, and energy storage systems in its own factories. The company also installs complete electricity networks for customers in horticulture and the industrial sector.

We appreciate the pleasant collaboration with Theo Gijzen and Steen Hilsbo of Alfen in this project. We wish the employees of the company much enjoyment with the new platform trucks.

Special and heavy-duty applications

PTB Special Products has been supplying battery-powered transport vehicles of its own manufacture since 1976. Today, the focus is on developing transport vehicles for special and heavy-duty applications. Hundreds of custom pallet trucks, stackers, and electric tuggers from PTB are used worldwide for complex logistics tasks.

Renowned companies such as Philips, Deutsche Bahn, ASML, Mercedes-Benz, and Hitachi have been using PTB machines for many years. PTB Special Products has two manufacturing locations in Groningen and is part of the PTB Group.