Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Forklifts, also called powered lift trucks, are used to carry out various tasks in industrial, construction and distribution settings. These heavy-duty machines are intended to be reliable and tough so they are capable of moving heavy items in all different types of environments and conditions. Forklifts could run on various types of fuels and thus able to adapt to many different work settings.
Electricity
The electric models produce no emissions and quiet and reliable. These units could run on industrial-strength large batteries which are made to be able to be successfully recharged about 1500 times in their functional lifespan. As electric forklifts generate no exhaust fumes, it is oftentimes the machinery of choice and necessity in places which have inadequate ventilation. These forklifts require a charging station somewhere on the premises that is equipped with an emergency acid spill kit and eyewash station due to the batteries. For safety reasons, the charging section must be ventilated well.
Propane
The modern forklift usually utilizes liquid propane. Propane provides different benefits over electric and diesel models. For example, propane normally costs less compared to electricity. When recharging the battery, there is no need to remove the forklift from service.
Additionally, compared to diesel powered models, propane units provide a much cleaner operation. In the majority of cases, a propane forklift is refueled by just changing out the propane tank that is empty with a new full one. Typically, an off-site supplier would re-fill the tanks. This ensures an easy, safe and fast re-fueling procedure.
Diesel and Gasoline
Because forklifts which use gasoline or diesel produce smelly exhaust, they require more maintenance. They have fairly high fuel costs as well. Since they have a useful and much longer lifespan, they are rather dependable than electric or propane models. Re-fueling needs a fuel supply on site that conforms to strict health and safety codes. Diesel and gas models are mostly used on rough terrain in outdoor applications, like in lumber yard environments or on construction sites.