Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
In industrial, construction and distribution settings, forklifts or powered lift trucks are usually utilized to carry out many tasks. These heavy-duty machinery are designed to be reliable and tough so they are capable of transporting heavy objects in all different kinds of conditions and environments. Forklifts are powered by many types of fuels and hence can adapt to a lot of different work settings.
Electricity
Producing no emissions, the electric forklifts are very reliable and quiet. These units could operate on industrial-strength large batteries that are made to be able to be successfully recharged approximately one thousand five hundred times throughout their useful lifespan. As electric forklifts create no exhaust fumes, it is oftentimes the machine of necessity and choice in places which have inadequate ventilation. These forklifts need a charging place 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 must be well ventilated.
Propane
Liquid propane is a common power source for the modern lift truck. Propane offers different advantages over electric and diesel models. For instance, propane normally costs less than electricity. When the battery is being recharged, there is no need to remove the lift truck from service.
Propane units also offer a much cleaner operation compared to forklifts which are powered by diesel. In the majority of instances, a propane forklift is 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 a safe, easy and fast re-fueling process.
Diesel and Gasoline
As forklifts which utilize diesel or gasoline produce smelly exhaust, they require more maintenance. They have relatively high fuel costs as well. Since they have a much longer and useful lifespan, they are quite dependable than propane or electric models. Re-fueling requires a fuel supply on site that conforms to strict health and safety codes. Gas and diesel models are mostly utilized on rough terrain in outdoor applications, like for example in lumber yard environments or on construction sites.