Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
In construction, distribution and industrial environments, forklifts or powered lift trucks are usually utilized to carry out many tasks. These heavy-duty machinery are designed to be dependable and tough so they are capable of transporting heavy objects in all different types of conditions and environments. Forklifts are powered by various kinds of fuels and hence can adapt to many different work environments.
Electricity
Generating no emissions, the electric forklifts are very 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 during their functional lifespan. Since electric forklifts generate no exhaust fumes, it is usually the machinery of necessity and choice in places that have inadequate ventilation. These forklifts need a charging place somewhere on the premises which is equipped with an eyewash station and emergency acid spill kit because of the batteries. For safety reasons, the charging area must be well ventilated.
Propane
The modern forklift normally uses liquid propane. Propane offers different advantages over electric and diesel models. For example, propane is usually cheaper than electricity. While the battery is being recharged, there is no need to remove the forklift from service.
Propane units also provide a much cleaner operation compared to forklifts which are powered by diesel. In the majority of cases, a propane forklift is refueled by simply changing out the propane tank that is empty with a new full one. Usually, an off-site supplier will re-fill the tanks. This guarantees a safe, easy and fast re-fueling process.
Gasoline and Diesel
As forklifts which use diesel or gasoline produce smelly exhaust, they require more maintenance. They have relatively high fuel costs too. Since they have a much longer and useful lifespan, they are quite reliable than propane or electric models. Re-fueling requires a fuel supply on site which follows strict health and safety codes. Gas and diesel models are mostly utilized in outdoor applications on rough terrain, like in lumber yard environments or on construction sites.