Equipment

Surprising Construction Applications Powered by Propane

On construction jobsites, using versatile equipment and energy sources can be key to crew productivity and a better bottom line, which is a big reason why propane-powered equipment is growing in popularity.
By Matt McDonald
May 17, 2021
Topics
Equipment

On construction jobsites, using versatile equipment and energy sources can be key to crew productivity and a better bottom line, which is a big reason why propane-powered equipment is growing in popularity.

Propane provides the power needed to handle virtually any jobsite task, alleviating the need for crews to juggle multiple energy sources. It can be a go-to jobsite energy source, fueling a wide range of light construction equipment used for power generation, material handling and concrete work.

And the list of construction equipment that can be powered by propane continues to grow as more manufacturers and brands discover its advantages and make the move away from corded equipment. Most notably, many brands that once offered electric-only equipment are now offering engine-driven solutions.

Jobsite power

Propane is most popular for powering construction mainstays like small portable and large towable generators, jobsite heaters and mobile light towers. Because it’s an independent and highly portable energy source, propane can be stored on-site, supplying power to jobsites regardless of where they are located. Propane’s resilient, dependable characteristics are a few reasons it’s become a go-to energy source among crews, helping to keep projects moving year-round.

Material handling

Propane has the capability to power material handling equipment like scissor lifts, boom lifts and forklifts. Warehouses across the country rely on propane-powered forklifts for their performance benefits and—because they can safely operate in properly ventilated indoor spaces—they can also be valuable on construction jobsites after a building is enclosed. Plus, propane-powered equipment doesn’t lose power throughout the workday or require hours of recharging, like with electric equipment. Instead, crews can simply swap out an empty propane cylinder for a full one and get back to work.

Concrete work

Propane supplies power to a long list of concrete construction equipment including riding trowels, grinders, polishers, floor strippers, dust extractors, concrete saws, power buggies, power concrete trowels, and concrete grinders and polishers. Many concrete construction contractors are finding that propane-powered equipment stands apart from other fuel options. Propane equipment not only allows crews to work independent from the grid, but it also eliminated restrictions and safety hazards brought on by electric cords. Additionally, propane equipment gives contractors more freedom of movement, enabling them to work more efficiently.

by Matt McDonald
Matt McDonald is the director of off-road business development for the Propane Education & Research Council. He can be reached at matt.mcdonald@propane.com. To learn more about the benefits of propane for light construction equipment, visit Propane.com. Visit Propane.com for more information on propane-powered construction equipment. To download safety resources from PERC, visit Propane.com/Construction-Safety.

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