HANDOVER OF 27 PALFINGER TEC LOADER CRANES AND AERIAL WORK PLATFORMS TO HEP ODS IN CROATIA

PK-PALFINGER Kran d.o.o. has completed one of its largest single deliveries in recent years for HEP – Distribution System Operator d.o.o. (HEP ODS d.o.o.) part of the Croatian Electric Power Company (HEP Group). At the July 15 handover event, 10 PALFINGER PK 245 TEC loader cranes, 10 PALFINGER P 200 A-E and 7 P 130 A aerial work platforms and 29 specialized trailers were officially delivered to support the maintenance, construction, and emergency response operations of Croatia’s electricity distribution network.

The Handover was attended by 60 representatives from HEP ODS and PK-PALFINGER Kran. Combining technical training, a formal vehicle handover, and a more informal celebration, the event underlined the close, long-standing relationship between the two companies.

Customer – HEP Croatian Electric Power Company

HEP ODS is responsible for managing, maintaining, developing, and constructing Croatia’s electricity distribution network. Its field teams ensure the safe and reliable supply of electricity to end users across the country.

 "This delivery represents one of the most significant projects we have completed in recent years. We are especially proud that it marks the continuation of our successful partnership with HEP ODS, which has been ongoing since 1997. So far we have delivered more than 375 loader cranes, aerial work platforms and other specialized solutions. The trust they continue to place in us is a testament to the quality of our products, the expertise of our employees, and the strong partnership we have built over nearly three decades," says Nataša Rakovac-Rustja Head of Sales and Marketing at PK-PALFINGER Kran d.o.o.

The Challenge – Modernizing Critical Fleet Operations

Electricity distribution work requires versatile equipment that can perform reliably in demanding field conditions. HEP ODS needed a fleet capable of supporting a variety of applications including construction of new electricity distribution infrastructure, maintenance and repair work of existing networks. The goal was not simply to replace existing outdated vehicles, but to create a highly capable fleet in which loader crane and aerial work platform applications complement one another.

"Modernizing our vehicle fleet is an important part of HEP ODS's continuous investment in the safety, reliability and efficiency of work on the electricity distribution network. The new specialized vehicles will enable our field teams to work more efficiently and safely while further enhancing our readiness for everyday maintenance and emergency interventions throughout Croatia," explains Tibor-Mijo Kuljanić from HEP ODS d.o.o.

The Solutions – One Vehicle for a Complete Work Process

• PALFINGER PK 245 TEC loader cranes

The 10 PALFINGER PK 245 TEC loader cranes mounted on Iveco T-Way 360 chassis are the smallest model in PALFINGER’s TEC loader crane range. Each crane features five hydraulic extensions and a maximum hydraulic outreach of 15.3 meters. The vehicle is equipped with a TS-4.1 modular cargo body which comes with internal dimensions of 4,100 x 2,480 x 600 mm, a 36 kN hydraulic winch with 40 Meters of steel wire rope, PALFINGER workman basket, earth auger, a transport and handling system for concrete poles, removable turntable and rear storage rack as well as a single-axle trailer manufactured by PK-PALFINGER Kran. With Smart Control these loader cranes enable precise, efficient work when using attachments such as an earth auger. This complete solution allows the crews to complete their entire work process with one vehicle. This integrated approach eliminates the need for a second vehicle for the pole transport and reduces coordination effort, travel time, and on-site handling.

• PALFINGER P 200 A-E Aerial Work Platforms

For maintenance, repairs, and work at heights, HEP ODS received 10 PALFINGER P 200 A-E aerial work platforms on Iveco Daily 35S14H chassis. With a working height of 19.7 meters, a maximum side outreach of 8.4 meters, a basket capacity of 250 kg and an insulated PVC work basket for work on energized electrical installations, these aerial work platforms provide a dedicated solution for maintenance and emergency work throughout the power distribution network.

• PALFINGER P 130 A aerial work platforms

7 P 130 A aerial work platforms on Ford Ranger chassis were delivered for fast-response maintenance operations. These compact units provide mobility and flexibility for crews operating in locations with restricted access or requiring rapid deployment. These solutions feature 13 meters of working height, 7 meters od aide outreach, 3,500 kg electric winch, aluminum toolboxes, stabilizer pad holders and rear-light protection for demanding field conditions.

Complementary Applications, Not Product Cannibalization

The new fleet demonstrates how loader cranes and aerial work platforms work hand in hand in electricity-distribution applications. The PK245 TEC loader crane vehicles are designed for comprehensive construction and installation tasks, including pole transport, drilling, lifting, installation, and personnel lifting with a workman basket. The P200 A-E and P 130 A aerial work platforms provide specialized access for maintenance, repair, inspection, and emergency work at height. Rather than replacing one application with another, the combination expands HEP ODS’s operational capabilities and enables each vehicle type to be used where it creates the most value.

Delivery Beyond the Vehicles

PK-PALFINGER Kran completed the delivery before HEP’s company-wide summer vacation, demonstrating a clear commitment to the customer’s operational schedule. Training was a central part of the handover as well. HEP ODS operators received instruction covering the new functions and assistance systems of the TEC loader cranes, safe operation of PALFINGER workman baskets, use of the earth auger amongst other equipment, aerial-work-platform operation, and application-specific operating procedures. PK-PALFINGER Kran also offered follow-up, on-site training at the customer locations. This service will help operators build confidence with the new equipment and ensure that the fleet is used safely and efficiently in everyday operations. The handover event itself was designed as a combination of technical support, personal interaction and well-organized delivery to reinforce the customer’s sense of being supported throughout the project.