be increased.
In addition to battery-based power, there are a number of alternative energy options being implemented today. As an intermediate step away from diesel power while all electric equipment is
“ The electrification of heavy equipment could change the industry more than any other sustainable effort in construction.” being further developed, the hybrid machine provides the best of both worlds. A hybrid machine uses electric power for transport around jobsites and for lightduty operations, but can be switched to diesel when more power is required. Biofuels like biodiesel and hydrogen can be used as a cleaner alternative to diesel; and hydrogen-powered fuel cells offer zero emissions and an extended range.
Emerging Technologies
Emerging technologies are contributing greatly to the ongoing development of the sustainable equipment of the future. Additive manufacturing, better known as 3D printing, has rapidly grown beyond a curiosity for producing toys and gadgets to taking its rightful place in the manufacturing of parts for heavy machinery.
3D printers are now capable of creating large parts for prototyping and validating new designs in the heavy equipment industry. Instead of being limited to fused deposition modeling( the only material used in the early days of this technology), these machines can now print with a number of media including various types of plastics, resins and even metals. Some examples of parts that are now being produced for heavy equipment are light and mirror housings, grab handles, joysticks, air vent grills, fenders and door hinges.
Closely related is digital-twin technology that creates a virtual replica of a piece of machinery, enabling manufacturers to simulate and test performance, identify potential issues and optimize efficiency before the physical production begins. Other technologies that are making inroads into the design, manufacture and end-use of heavy machinery are AI, robotics, virtual and augmented reality, the IoT and cloud computing. With the fervent drive toward sustainability, newer and more sophisticated technologies will continue to emerge as we move into the future.
No longer the stuff of daydreams, operating a fleet of battery-powered, self-driving dozers, excavators or dump trucks is a reality just around the corner. These technologies will help to ensure that we will be able to continue the production of what we need right now in order to survive and thrive, and to make that possible for the generations to come.
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Fall 2025 | Telecom & Utility Construction 15