Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
In construction, distribution and industrial settings, powered lift trucks or forklifts are commonly used to perform a lot of jobs. These heavy-duty equipment are designed to be tough and dependable so they could transport heavy things in all different types of environments and conditions. Forklifts are powered by various kinds of fuels and therefore could adapt to a lot of different work settings.
Electricity
Producing no emissions, the electric forklifts are very reliable and quiet. These units could run on industrial-strength large batteries which are made to be able to be successfully recharged around 1500 times during their functional lifespan. As electric forklifts generate no exhaust fumes, it is usually the machine of necessity and choice in areas which have inadequate ventilation. These forklifts require a charging station somewhere on the premises that is equipped with an eyewash station and emergency acid spill kit because of the batteries. For safety reasons, the charging section must be well ventilated.
Propane
The modern forklift normally uses liquid propane. Propane offers various advantages over diesel and electric models. For instance, propane normally costs less compared to electricity. While recharging the battery, 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 most cases, a propane forklift can be refueled by simply changing out the empty propane tank with a new full one. Usually, an off-site supplier would re-fill the tanks. This guarantees a fast, safe and easy re-fueling procedure.
Diesel and Gasoline
Since forklifts which use gasoline or diesel produce smelly exhaust, they need more maintenance. They have relatively high fuel costs as well. Because they have a useful and much longer lifespan, they are rather dependable than propane or electric models. Re-fueling needs a fuel supply on site that follows strict safety and health codes. Gas and diesel models are mostly utilized in outdoor applications on rough terrain, like for instance on construction sites or in lumber yard environments.