Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
In distribution, industrial and construction settings, forklifts or powered lift trucks are usually utilized to do lots of jobs. These heavy-duty equipment are intended to be dependable and tough so they are capable of transporting heavy objects in all different kinds of conditions and environments. Forklifts are powered by numerous kinds of fuels and thus can 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 that are made to be able to be successfully recharged about one thousand five hundred times throughout their useful lifespan. As electric forklifts generate no exhaust fumes, it is oftentimes the machine of necessity and choice in areas which have inadequate ventilation. These forklifts require a charging station somewhere on the premises which is equipped with an emergency acid spill kit and eyewash station due to the batteries. For safety reasons, the charging section must be well ventilated.
Propane
Liquid propane is a common source of power for the modern forklift. Propane offers various benefits over diesel and electric models. For instance, propane is normally cheaper than electricity. While recharging the battery, there is no need to remove the forklift from service.
Propane units also offer a much cleaner operation compared to forklifts that are powered by diesel. In most instances, a propane forklift could be refueled by simply changing out the empty propane tank with a new full one. Usually, an off-site supplier would re-fill the tanks. This ensures an easy, fast and safe re-fueling procedure.
Gasoline and Diesel
Because forklifts that utilize gasoline or diesel produce smelly exhaust, they need more maintenance. They have fairly high fuel costs too. As they have a much longer and useful lifespan, they are rather dependable than electric or propane models. Re-fueling needs a fuel supply on site that follows strict health and safety codes. Diesel and gas models are mostly used in outdoor applications on rough terrain, such as in lumber yard environments or on construction sites.