Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
In industrial, construction and distribution environments, forklifts or powered lift trucks are normally used to carry out lots of jobs. These heavy-duty machines are intended to be tough and reliable so they could move heavy items in all different kinds of conditions and environments. Forklifts can operate on various types of fuels and hence able to adapt to a lot of different work environments.
Electricity
Generating no emissions, the electric forklifts are very reliable and quiet. These units are powered by industrial-strength large batteries which are made to be able to be successfully recharged approximately 1500 times in their useful lifespan. Because electric forklifts create no exhaust fumes, it is oftentimes the machine of necessity and choice in areas that have limited ventilation. These forklifts require a charging place somewhere on the premises which is equipped with an eyewash station and emergency acid spill kit because of the batteries. For safety reasons, the charging area must be well ventilated.
Propane
The modern forklift usually uses liquid propane. Propane offers various advantages over diesel and electric models. Like for instance, propane usually costs less than electricity. When the battery is being recharged, there is no need to remove the forklift from service.
Propane units also offer a much cleaner operation compared to forklifts which are powered by diesel. In the majority of instances, a propane forklift could be refueled by simply changing out the empty propane tank with a new one that is full. Typically, an off-site supplier would re-fill the tanks. This ensures a safe, easy and fast re-fueling process.
Gasoline and Diesel
As forklifts that use gasoline or diesel produce smelly exhaust, they require more maintenance. They have relatively high fuel costs as well. Because they have a much longer and useful lifespan, they are quite dependable compared to propane or electric models. Re-fueling requires a fuel supply on site which conforms to strict health and safety codes. Gas and diesel models are mainly utilized in outdoor applications on rough terrain, like on construction sites or in lumber yard environments.