Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Forklifts, also called powered lift trucks, are utilized to perform numerous jobs in distribution, industrial and construction environments. These heavy-duty machines are designed to be tough and reliable so they can move heavy things in all different kinds of conditions and environments. Forklifts are powered by numerous types of fuels and thus able to adapt to many different work settings.
Electricity
The electric models produce no emissions and quiet and reliable. These units could run on industrial-strength large batteries which are made to be able to be successfully recharged roughly one thousand five hundred times in their useful lifespan. Because electric forklifts produce no exhaust fumes, it is oftentimes the machine of choice and necessity in areas that have inadequate ventilation. These forklifts require a charging station somewhere on the premises which is equipped with an eyewash station and emergency acid spill kit due to the batteries. For safety reasons, the charging area needs to be ventilated well.
Propane
Liquid propane is a common power source for the modern lift truck. Propane offers different advantages over electric and diesel models. Like for example, propane usually costs less compared to electricity. While recharging the battery, there is no need to remove the lift truck from service.
Moreover, compared to diesel powered models, propane units provide a much cleaner operation. In most instances, a propane forklift could be refueled by just changing out the propane tank that is empty with a new one which is full. Typically, an off-site supplier would re-fill the tanks. This guarantees a safe, fast and easy re-fueling procedure.
Gasoline and Diesel
Since forklifts which use diesel or gasoline produce smelly exhaust, they require more maintenance. They have fairly high fuel costs too. As they have a much longer and useful lifespan, they are rather dependable than propane or electric models. Re-fueling needs a fuel supply on site that conforms to strict health and safety codes. Gas and diesel models are mainly utilized in outdoor applications on rough terrain, like for example on construction sites or in lumber yard environments.