Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Powered lift trucks known as forklifts are utilized in almost every business to move heavy products and supplies. The forklift is a really durable and dependable machine that has become important tools in many warehouse and construction environments. Lift truck models differ depending on the kind of fuel that is utilized to power the lift truck and the kind of work setting.
Electricity
Electric powered lift trucks are great for indoor environments, or in sites with limited ventilation as they produce no exhaust fumes. They are designed with industrial strength batteries. Because the electric forklift batteries need charging, the worksite would need a charging station. The batteries are durable and can be re-charged up to 1,500 times before they need to be replaced. The charging station should be situated in a ventilated area and include an emergency eyewash station and an acid spill kit.
Propane
Forklifts powered by liquid propane have some benefits over electric and diesel powered equipment making them quite common in warehouse and industrial settings. Propane engines are much cleaner than diesel-powered units. There is no down time needed to recharge an industrial battery, and the cost of electricity is more compared to the cost of propane. A forklift propane tank can be easily and quickly refueled by changing out the empty tank with a full tank. Typically an off-site supplier refills the empty tank, making refueling very safe and efficient.
Gasoline and Gas
For outdoor applications and rough terrain, the gas and diesel forklifts are the machines of choice. These machinery are fairly common in lumber yards and on construction sites. Their disadvantages include fairly high fuel costs, fairly high maintenance requirements and odorous exhaust. Their benefits comprise dependability in tough conditions and a longer lifespan compared to other units. Gasoline and diesel units should be refueled at a supply station on site that meets health and safety policies.