BuildStreet Project Management Services for Efficient Road Construction

BuildStreet Project Management Services discusses how to reduce fuel consumption & emissions in road construction through efficient machinery (electric, hybrid excavators), operator training, and lifecycle assessments.

Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important consideration in road construction. The three mantras are Recycle, Reuse, and Reduce, but the most applicable in the context of construction machinery is 'Reduce'.

Vivek Singh - Founder, BuildStreet Project Management Services

Reducing machine hours and fuel consumption while maintaining productivity is key to achieving sustainability goals. This can be accomplished through mechanical and operational efficiency, which involves careful selection of machinery, diligent maintenance, and strategic fuel use. These efforts not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also enhance the financial viability of projects by reducing waste and CO2 emissions.

Managing machinery in a road construction project with sustainability objectives involves multiple strategies aimed at reducing environmental impact, improving efficiency, and ensuring safety. Here are some key approaches:

Using Machineries With Energy Efficient Technology

Select machines that achieve reduction in consumption of fuel and higher efficiency by identifying and utilising the unutilised energy produced by the features and functions of the machine itself.

Modern technologies such as electric or hybrid machinery are excellent choices. For example, the Hybrid excavator can reduce up to 35% fuel consumption and up to 20% emissions by using boom movement to produce power. An excavator, which uses an improved and innovative hydraulic design to improve swinging efficiency, is improving cycle time, resulting in 15% increase in efficiency with up to 20% lower fuel use.

Regular Maintenance – Routine & Predictive

A rigorous maintenance schedule ensures efficient machinery operation and prevents breakdowns. Regular routine maintenance reduces unexpected downtimes and keeps equipment running smoothly. IoT sensors and data analytics predict when maintenance is needed, reducing downtime and extending machine life. Technologies like Product Link System monitor equipment health in real-time.

Operator Training

Operators should be trained in techniques that reduce fuel consumption. This includes avoiding machine idling, using the correct gears, and maintaining steady speeds. Techniques like gentle acceleration and braking, as well as maintaining optimal RPMs, can significantly reduce fuel use and carbon emission. Operators should be well trained in safety protocols in order to minimise accidents and their associated environmental impacts.

Monitoring and Reporting - Operation & Emission

GPS and telematics can help in real time monitoring of machinery usage, fuel consumption, and emissions. Various solutions for fleet management come with appropriate telematic applications which help in tracking and optimizing machine performance.

Along with the operation, monitoring a detailed record of the environmental performance of all machinery is required to be maintained. These metrics are reported regularly to stakeholders and this transparency helps in making informed decisions and improving practices.

Estimation of the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for the project helps in planning mitigation measures with a carbon-neutral objective. This involves calculating the emissions from all machinery and identifying strategies to offset them, such as using renewable energy sources or carbon credits.

Operational Efficiency- Idling & Misuse

Planning and optimising machinery movement reduces travel distances and fuel consumption. Fleet management tools and software can help in route planning and reducing unnecessary movement. Machinery must be used for the purpose it is meant for and should be used for allowable loads only. (For instance, using the grader as a dozer). Machine misuse results in engines being overworked, leading to increased emissions, fuel use, and maintenance requirement.

Sustainable Fuels

High-quality fuel will help maintain engine efficiency and reduce emissions. Alternative fuels like biofuels, compressed natural gas (CNG), and other fuels have lower environmental impacts. For example, switching to biodiesel can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 74% compared to conventional diesel.

Carefully selected chemical additives reduce friction between moving parts thereby ensuring the machine works smoothly and efficiently, while also reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

Innovation and Technology

Automated machineries improve precision and efficiency, reducing waste and rework. Autonomous trucks and pavers can operate with greater accuracy and efficiency. AI and machine learning optimise machinery operation and maintenance schedules. Predictive analytics can forecast equipment needs and maintenance, preventing overuse and breakdowns.

Lifecycle Assessment- Recycle & Re-use

Lifecycle assessments are made to understand and mitigate the environmental impact of machinery from its manufacturing to its disposal.

Planning for end-of-life of the machinery, including recycling or repurposing parts, reduces waste. Utilising remanufacturing services of construction machineries and their parts can help achieve a resource-efficient operation.

Compliance and Standards

Ensure all machinery complies with local and international environmental regulations and standards. Staying updated with regulations helps avoid penalties and promotes sustainable practices. Obtain certifications for machinery and operations that meet recognized sustainability standards, such as ISO 14001 for environmental management systems. These certifications demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and can improve market competitiveness.

Conclusion

By incorporating these strategies, road construction projects can significantly reduce their environmental footprint, improve operational efficiency, and contribute to broader sustainability goals. These initiatives not only make projects more financially viable for contractors by reducing waste and CO2 emissions, but also enhance the overall total cost of ownership and promote long-term sustainable practices.

However, despite all efforts, some environmental impact is inevitable; hence, continuously monitoring GHG emissions, estimating their levels, and planning effective mitigation measures are essential measures. By generating carbon credits through these efforts, construction operations can strive to achieve carbon neutrality, ultimately making a meaningful contribution to environmental sustainability.