How NASCAR Uses Propane to Keep the Track Dry

When rain hits a NASCAR track, it does more than dampen the pavement; it can halt the entire event. Slick surfaces at speeds over 180 mph create serious safety risks, while delays frustrate fans, disrupt momentum, and complicate broadcast schedules. To combat this, NASCAR relies on modern propane-powered track dryers that provide a faster, cleaner, and more efficient solution than systems used in the past. These dryers have become essential to keeping drivers safe, on schedule, and the action exciting for everyone, all while proving the power of propane technology on race day.

Why Track Drying Matters

For years, jet-engine dryers were the standard, but they consumed large amounts of fuel, produced excess emissions, and required long warm-up times. Propane-powered systems, by contrast, are cleaner alternative energy, deliver faster deployment, and more maneuverability. This evolution represents more than upgraded equipment; it’s a practical approach to race management.

How Propane-Powered Track Dryers Work

These dryers use propane burners to produce hot air, which is blown across the track to evaporate water rapidly. Mounted on mobile units, they target wet spots efficiently. Propane burns cleanly, leaving no residue behind, which eliminates the need for additional cleanup and allows races to resume quickly.

Benefits of Propane Track Dryer Technology

Propane’s versatility and thermal efficiency make it ideal for track drying. Unlike jet fuel, propane is affordable, abundant, and domestically produced, making it a practical choice for ongoing operations.

Faster, More Efficient Drying

Engineered for maximum heat output and wide coverage, propane dryers reduce downtime while lowering emissions and fuel use. Shorter delays mean smoother experiences for fans and teams.

Enhanced Safety

Thoroughly dried tracks help prevent hydroplaning and skidding. Drivers maintain better control, while pit crews work with greater confidence knowing conditions are consistent and safe.

A Better Fan and Event Experience

Every minute matters on race day. Propane-powered track dryers keep the action safe, on schedule, and preserve the full race day experience for everyone.

Keeping Energy High

Fans don’t want to sit through long weather delays. By cutting downtime, propane dryers keep the excitement alive both in the stands and on TV.

Supporting Event Flow

From scheduling to managing concessions and broadcasts, every aspect of race day benefits from efficient track drying. Propane helps organizers keep operations on time and profitable.

Propane in Motorsports

Earlier this year, Suburban Propane became an official NASCAR partner, bringing decades of energy expertise to the sport. Beyond powering the new propane track dryers, Suburban Propane supports fans and teams throughout the event.

Energy for Fans and Teams

From RVs and campgrounds to tailgates and food service, propane fuels the fan experience. Reliable propane energy ensures fans can cook, camp, and celebrate without interruption.

Powering Communities Beyond the Track

Suburban Propane delivers clean, dependable energy nationwide, from heating homes and fueling fleets to powering farms, and now, keeping race days on schedule. Learn more about this partnership with NASCAR and explore the benefits of propane energy.