Basic Kinds of Fuels Used for Forklifts
Forklifts, also referred to as powered lift trucks, are utilized to do various tasks in construction, distribution and industrial settings. These heavy-duty equipment are designed to be reliable and tough so they can move heavy things in all different types of conditions and environments. Forklifts can operate on various types of fuels and therefore able to adapt to a lot of different work environments.
Electricity
The electric models generate no emissions and reliable and quiet. 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. Since electric forklifts generate no exhaust fumes, it is usually the machine of choice and necessity in places which have inadequate ventilation. These forklifts need a charging station anywhere on the premises that is equipped with an emergency acid spill kit and eyewash station because of the batteries. For safety reasons, the charging area has to be well ventilated.
Propane
Liquid propane is a common power source for the modern lift truck. Propane provides different benefits over diesel and electric models. Like for example, propane is normally cheaper than electricity. While the battery is being recharged, there is no need to remove the lift truck from service.
In addition, compared to diesel powered models, propane units provide a much cleaner operation. In most cases, a propane forklift is refueled by simply changing out the empty propane tank with a new full one. Typically, an off-site supplier would re-fill the tanks. This guarantees an easy, fast and safe re-fueling procedure.
Gasoline and Diesel
Because forklifts that utilize diesel or gasoline produce smelly exhaust, they need more maintenance. They have fairly high fuel costs as well. As they have a useful and much longer lifespan, they are quite dependable compared to propane or electric models. Re-fueling needs a fuel supply on site that follows strict health and safety codes. Gas and diesel models are mostly used on rough terrain in outdoor applications, like in lumber yard environments or on construction sites.