There are 2 main lift truck fuel varieties and types that are mostly used in the marketplace: electric lift trucks and internal combustion or IC forklifts.
Normally, electric forklifts are utilized away from the elements within indoor operations. These models are a lot easier to utilize in a confined warehouse area. They make no emissions which have to be vented or collected and are much quieter to operate.
On the other hand, internal combustion lift trucks are superior in outdoor applications and are commonly utilized in external loading docks and construction zones. These units are offered with a less upfront cost. Furthermore, IC forklifts are faster to refuel than the electric units, since their internal batteries require several hours of recharging time.
If you have decided to pick the IC route, the next decision you will face is what type of fuel do you want to utilize to power your machinery? There are some newer hybrid units on the market, but the most common fuel types are gasoline, propane or diesel forklifts.
When choosing the right lift truck for your business, it is a great idea to go over the pros and cons that a particular type of lift will bring to your business. For example, will a propane lift be best for your specific application or business? Take time to read on to be able to know more.
One of the best advantages propane forklifts have to provide is their immense flexibility. They are the easiest and fastest models to refill that is a huge thing to take into consideration since it drastically minimizes downtime on your warehouse floor. For instance, diesel forklifts require an on-site storage tank and pump system and electric lifts need hours to recharge. Conversely, propane cylinders are fairly fast to swap out and need no cranes or lift to handle them.
The biggest disadvantage of propane costs would likely be their ongoing expenses. The regular maintenance and repair costs will be more frequent with these units than gasoline or diesel forklifts. Furthermore, fuel expenses are typically higher on propane units as composed to diesel or gas. It is essential to consider the fact that fuel expenses could greatly differ from place to place.