De Haan SE secures largest order in 125-year existence
Lifting blocks for the placement of the world’s largest combined underwater traffic tunnel between Denmark and Germany – the Fehrmanbelt Tunnel
2023 can certainly be described as a special year for De Haan Special Equipment. The Dutch company celebrates its 125th anniversary and has secured their largest order ever: the production and delivery of enormous lifting blocks and related products for the placement of the world’s largest combined underwater traffic tunnel between Denmark and Germany.
The company, once started in 1898 as a small-scale rope-making company, has developed into a world-class player over the years. In addition to rope production, demand for pulleys for ship lifting applications emerged. “In the 1980s we secured our first contract for the production of lifting blocks for mobile cranes,” says Jeroen Hut, Commercial Manager at De Haan Special Equipment.
Assignments of stature
Since that first order, the company has established itself on the world stage. “About 95% of all the products we manufacture here are being exported. For example, we supplied lifting blocks for the construction of the flood barrier in Venice and the steel cables which hold up the Tower of Pisa are secured with end connections which were made here,” explains Jeroen. “This new order fits nicely into that sequence.”
Fehrmanbelt Tunnel
A new traffic tunnel between the German mainland and Denmark is currently being constructed at the bottom of the Baltic Sea. This tunnel will replace the ferry connection between Puttgarden and Rødby. “Through that new tunnel, you can travel to the other side by car or train within 10 minutes. The lifting blocks and other lifting materials for the installation of this structure are made and delivered by De Haan SE. A big project, on which we are working with all our might.”
Interaction between man and machine
De Haan Special Equipment has everything in-house to produce the lifting materials. “Everything is done here on site, from design to production and assembly. For us, it’s all about working as one team. That’s where the strength of our growth and success is to be found,” tells Jeroen. The team of dedicated welders, painters, engineers, CNC milling/turning operators, commercial and logistics staff and assembly specialists represent ‘the perfect mix of experienced professionals and young talent’. “Some colleagues have been working here for over 25 or more years, which certainly tells you something about the commitment of our employees and our corporate culture.”
Excited about the future
Although they are proud of their heritage and achievements at de Haan SE, they are especially excited about the future. “The growing U.S. market offers great new opportunities. Therefore, we are always looking for talented colleagues to join our team of experts. Our horizontal organizational structure and focus on personal development ensures a pleasant working atmosphere. We provide the ideal environment where talents can be deployed and grow, so that everyone enjoys working here with us.”
For more information about De Haan Special Equipment visit www.dehaan-se.com.
