Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Powered lift trucks known as forklifts are used in almost every industry to move heavy products and supplies. The lift truck is a really durable and reliable equipment which has become important tools in a lot of construction and warehouse environments. Lift truck units vary depending on the type of work setting and the kind of fuel that is utilized to power the lift truck.
Electricity
Electric powered lift trucks are great for indoor environments, or in sites with limited ventilation as they produce no exhaust fumes. They are designed with industrial strength batteries. Because the electric forklift batteries require charging, the worksite will require a charging station. The batteries are durable and could be re-charged up to 1,500 times before they need to be replaced. The charging station should be located in a ventilated area and include an acid spill kit and an emergency eyewash station.
Propane
Forklifts powered by liquid propane have some benefits over electric and diesel powered machinery making them quite common in industrial and warehouse settings. Propane engines are a lot cleaner than diesel-powered units. There is no down time required to recharge an industrial battery, and the cost of electricity is more than the cost of propane. A forklift propane tank can be refueled quickly and easily by changing out the empty tank with a full tank. Usually an off-site supplier refills the empty tank, making refueling very safe and efficient.
Gasoline and Gas
For rough terrain and outdoor applications, the diesel and gas forklifts are the machinery of choice. These equipment are fairly common in lumber yards and on construction sites. Their disadvantages include fairly high maintenance needs, odorous exhaust and relatively high fuel costs. Their advantages comprise a longer lifespan compared to other units and reliability in tough conditions. Diesel and gasoline units should be refueled at a supply station on site that meets safety and health regulations.