Sustainability is a hot topic for construction firms in the UK right now. The push towards a net zero future means companies are looking for new ways to reduce environmental impact on construction projects.
Reducing the carbon footprint and energy use in the construction industry can cover several different aspects of a project: from eco-designs, choice of materials, integrating biodiversity into buildings and recycling and reusing demolition output.
One area which is sometimes overlooked is the construction equipment and plant machinery used in both demolition and building projects.
How can construction equipment be sustainable?
Traditionally, large construction equipment such as excavators, loaders, bulldozers and trucks run on diesel. The combustion of diesel produces 2.68kg of carbon dioxide per litre, adding to the greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
However, there are changes that can make construction equipment more environmentally friendly. These include:
- Smart tracking to reduce fuel consumption
- Optimise the use of machinery by reducing idling and careful planning of usage
- Investing in electric and hybrid construction equipment
What are the advantages of electric-powered construction equipment?
Electric vehicle technology has advanced rapidly over the last few decades, allowing vehicles to be more environmentally friendly while still delivering on performance.
Among the advantages are:
Zero emissions
In alignment with Net Zero goals for 2050, electric construction equipment releases no emissions, unlike their diesel counterparts.
Quiet construction
Noise pollution and vibrations are also reduced as there is no growl of heavy combustion engines. This makes electric excavators such as the Sany SY19E 1.9 tonne digger ideal for noise-sensitive areas, night work or indoor construction.
Instant torque
Compared to a diesel engine, an electric excavator or other electric construction vehicle can immediately respond to acceleration and deliver smooth instant torque.
Less maintenance
While diesel equipment needs regular maintenance to keep it working, an electric vehicle requires 80 per cent less expenditure on maintenance over its working life. The reduction in maintenance also means less downtime for your machinery.
Heavy-duty battery life
New technology gives Sany electric excavators a very long battery life that can deliver a full day of work. They are equipped with Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries that can handle up to 3,500 lifetime charges and charge in as little as 1.5 hours.
Is it time to future-proof your construction fleet with new electric-powered Sany excavators?