Hendriks: building block of the energy transition

From wind turbines and energy pylons to cable ducts and transformer stations to charging stations in the street

Concrete. We walk on it, drive on it and live in it every day, often without considering how essential this material is to our modern world. From towering skyscrapers and miles of motorways to impressive bridges and wind turbine foundations, concrete forms the backbone of our infrastructure. Concrete is also currently playing a crucial role in the energy transition. In this article, we discover how companies are using Hendriks' expertise and various formwork systems to realise their green ambitions with this time-honoured material.

Changing energy infrastructure

Driven by climate change, CO2 emissions, the depletion of fossil fuels and excessive energy dependence, the world is switching to renewable or sustainable forms of energy. Energy that is generated by solar panels, wind turbines, hydropower or hydrogen, among other things. Energy that is produced and consumed in many more places than before. In order to get that energy to its final destination – the end user – various phases are being completed to build a completely new energy infrastructure. The concrete industry plays an important role in this as a supplier of a wide range of products. And Hendriks' moulds are used in the production of these various products.

From windmills to energy pylons

Let's start with the production side: wind turbines and energy pylons. Like other forms of renewable energy, wind energy is 'hot'. The construction of wind turbines and energy pylons is an interesting market for contractors who, for example, build the foundations. But not every wind turbine or pylon is the same, which raises the question of how to make investing in formwork attractive when the diameter of the foundation varies. Hendriks offers specially developed steel formwork for the construction of these concrete foundations. This formwork makes it possible to produce the foundations for wind turbines and pylons quickly, efficiently and with the necessary variations in diameter. This reduces installation time on site and lowers costs. In addition to formwork for wind turbines and energy masts, Hendriks also supplies moulds for the production of prefabricated foundation blocks in various sizes for smaller energy masts. These foundation blocks are placed in the field to support energy masts.

Via cable ducts and transformer stations

Cables have been used for transporting generated energy for many years. To protect them in energy projects, cable ducts are used – currently one of Hendriks' most popular products. These moulds enable concrete cable ducts to be produced quickly, efficiently and with extreme precision. Not only do they offer protection, they also ensure a structured approach to energy projects. The use of cable ducts also improves cable management and makes future expansions of the cable package quicker and easier to implement.

Before reaching the end user, the energy flow first passes through a transformer station. In a world that is becoming increasingly electric, these stations are playing an increasingly important role. Hendriks has been closely involved in the development of moulds for the efficient production of these transformer stations for many years. Many of these transformer stations are supplied in different heights, widths and lengths. This requires a moulding system that can be adjusted in size, preferably hydraulically, and used for a variety of types. Hendriks has a wealth of engineering expertise and knowledge and experience in developing mould solutions that can be flexibly adapted. In addition, Hendriks has unrivalled expertise in developing moulds that allow for smart and efficient formwork and stripping, and ensure that the concrete structure comes out neatly. As a result, the transformer stations not only meet the high standards of quality and safety, but also enhance the streetscape.

Up to the charging stations in the street

Ultimately, the energy is delivered to the end user, where it is used to power a wide range of equipment. We are seeing more and more charging stations and individual charging points appearing on our streets. This is a logical development when we consider that the rise of electric driving is rapidly increasing the need for charging infrastructure. Hendriks is also contributing to electrification in this area. The high-quality moulds for casting concrete foundations for electric vehicle charging stations are widely used. These moulds enable charging stations to be built and installed quickly. This accelerates the adoption of electric vehicles and reduces dependence on fossil fuels.

Towards a sustainable future

Concrete may have a decades-long tradition, but it plays an ultra-modern role in the world of energy transition. By offering a wide range of formwork and prefab moulds, Hendriks plays an important role in the entire energy transition chain: from wind turbine formwork, cable ducts and transformer stations to foundations for charging stations. Hendriks strives to accelerate the transition to a sustainable energy infrastructure and make a positive contribution to the environment and society as a whole. With a wealth of knowledge and experience, in-depth engineering expertise and a continuous stream of innovations, we are providing the building blocks for a sustainable future.