Basic Kinds of Fuels Used for Forklifts
In distribution, industrial and construction environments, powered lift trucks or forklifts are usually used to perform lots of jobs. These heavy-duty equipment are designed to be dependable and tough so they are capable of moving heavy objects in all different kinds of environments and conditions. Forklifts are powered by numerous types of fuels and hence could adapt to lots of different work settings.
Electricity
Generating no emissions, the electric forklifts are very quiet and reliable. These units could operate on industrial-strength large batteries that are made to be able to be successfully recharged roughly one thousand five hundred times throughout their functional lifespan. Since electric forklifts create no exhaust fumes, it is oftentimes the machinery of choice and necessity in areas that have limited ventilation. These forklifts require 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 section needs to be well ventilated.
Propane
The modern forklift usually utilizes liquid propane. Propane offers different advantages over electric and diesel models. For instance, propane is usually cheaper than electricity. While recharging the battery, there is no need to remove the lift truck from service.
Furthermore, compared to diesel powered models, propane units offer a much cleaner operation. In the majority of instances, a propane forklift is refueled by just changing out the propane tank that is empty with a new one which is full. Typically, an off-site supplier would re-fill the tanks. This ensures an easy, safe and fast re-fueling process.
Gasoline and Diesel
As forklifts that use diesel or gasoline produce smelly exhaust, they require more maintenance. They have relatively high fuel costs as well. As they have a much longer and useful lifespan, they are quite reliable compared to propane or electric models. Re-fueling requires a fuel supply on site which conforms to strict safety and health codes. Diesel and gas models are mainly used on rough terrain in outdoor applications, like in lumber yard environments or on construction sites.