Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
In distribution, industrial and construction environments, forklifts or powered lift trucks are normally used to perform a lot of jobs. These heavy-duty machinery are intended to be tough and dependable so they are capable of moving heavy objects in all different kinds of conditions and environments. Forklifts are powered by many kinds of fuels and hence able to adapt to a lot of different work environments.
Electricity
The electric models generate no emissions and reliable and quiet. These units are powered by industrial-strength large batteries that are made to be able to be successfully recharged roughly one thousand five hundred times in their functional lifespan. As electric forklifts generate no exhaust fumes, it is usually the machine of necessity and choice in places that have inadequate ventilation. These forklifts require a charging place anywhere on the premises which is equipped with an emergency acid spill kit and eyewash station due to the batteries. For safety reasons, the charging section needs to be well ventilated.
Propane
Liquid propane is a common power source for the modern forklift. Propane offers different advantages over diesel and electric models. For instance, propane is usually cheaper than electricity. When the battery is being recharged, there is no need to remove the lift truck from service.
Propane units also provide a much cleaner operation compared to forklifts which are powered by diesel. In the majority of instances, a propane forklift can be refueled by just changing out the empty propane tank with a new one which is full. Usually, an off-site supplier will re-fill the tanks. This guarantees an easy, safe and fast re-fueling process.
Diesel and Gasoline
Gasoline and diesel forklifts can need more maintenance and produce a smelly exhaust. They have relatively high fuel costs as well. Because they have a useful and much longer lifespan, they are rather reliable than propane or electric models. Re-fueling needs a fuel supply on site that conforms to strict safety and health codes. Gas and diesel models are mainly used on rough terrain in outdoor applications, like on construction sites or in lumber yard environments.