Designed and manufactured in the UK, this high-specification machine provides market-leading performance in the 13m van mount sector, in key areas including vehicle payload, platform safe working load (SWL) and boom outreach.
VWS uses van mounts for safe working at height in the installation, inspection, service and repair of CCTV as well as fire safety, security and intelligent building systems.
Mounted on a 3.5t Ford Transit, the Aldercote VZ130P can be driven by anyone with a standard UK licence. Features include automatic outreach optimisation based on the real-time platform load, and safe working load of up to 230kg. Horizontal outreach is 8.3m, while the 110˚ fly boom enables precise positioning of the platform.
VWS invested in the highest-spec VZ130P available, including Chapter 8 chevrons, along with two roof-mounted flashing amber beacons and a ply-lined cargo area. It purchased the machine from Access Platform Sales (APS), the exclusive UK distributor for Aldercote products.
Graham Wilson, managing director of VWS, said: “We have bought a few access vehicles through the years but I can honestly say this last purchase through Nathan and APS was by far the best experience. They readily supplied all the information we needed and we received a first class product and service. These are expensive bits of kit, so it always helps that the vendor appreciates the outlay for your business. APS will be top of our list when we look at investing in another van-mounted boom.”
The VZ130P’s unique turret and tripod pedestal configuration creates much more space in the rear of the vehicle, while the lighter weight steel boom significantly increases payload. It offers up to 300kg of carrying capacity, even after accounting for two occupants and a full tank of fuel. This innovative design also makes it safer and easier to access the emergency lowering function and the machine’s hydraulics – both are now conveniently located inside the van rather than on the roof.
The boom’s zero overhang ensures there is no tail swing outside the existing footprint of the van and its stabilisers, helping to improve worker safety. Two of the tripod’s legs incorporate independent, rotating stabilisers, which use a direct load transfer system to transfer the platform load through the main column directly to the stabilisers.