Basic Types of Fuels Used for Forklifts
In construction, distribution and industrial settings, powered lift trucks or forklifts are normally used to perform numerous tasks. These heavy-duty machines are intended to be tough and reliable so they could move heavy things in all different kinds of conditions and environments. Forklifts could run on various kinds of fuels and thus able to adapt to many different work environments.
Electricity
Generating no emissions, the electric forklifts are really quiet and reliable. These units could run on industrial-strength large batteries that are made to be able to be successfully recharged around 1500 times in their functional lifespan. Because electric forklifts generate no exhaust fumes, it is oftentimes the machine of choice and necessity in places that have inadequate ventilation. These forklifts require a charging station anywhere on the premises which is equipped with an emergency acid spill kit and eyewash station because of the batteries. For safety reasons, the charging area should be well ventilated.
Propane
The modern forklift normally utilizes liquid propane. Propane provides various advantages over electric and diesel models. For instance, propane normally costs less compared to electricity. When the battery is being recharged, there is no need to remove the lift truck from service.
Propane units also offer a much cleaner operation compared to forklifts that are powered by diesel. In most cases, a propane forklift is refueled by just changing out the empty propane tank with a new full one. Usually, an off-site supplier would re-fill the tanks. This ensures an easy, safe and fast re-fueling procedure.
Gasoline and Diesel
As forklifts that use diesel or gasoline produce smelly exhaust, they need more maintenance. They have fairly high fuel costs too. Because they have a much longer and useful lifespan, they are quite dependable compared to propane or electric models. Re-fueling needs a fuel supply on site that conforms to strict safety and health codes. Diesel and gas models are mainly utilized on rough terrain in outdoor applications, such as in lumber yard environments or on construction sites.