Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Forklifts, also known as powered lift trucks, are utilized to do various tasks in construction, distribution and industrial environments. These heavy-duty machines are intended to be dependable and tough so they are capable of moving heavy things in all different kinds of conditions and environments. Forklifts could operate on various types of fuels and therefore able to adapt to lots of different work settings.
Electricity
The electric models generate no emissions and quiet and reliable. These units are powered by industrial-strength large batteries that are made to be able to be successfully recharged around 1500 times throughout their functional lifespan. As electric forklifts generate no exhaust fumes, it is usually the machine of necessity and choice in places that have limited ventilation. These forklifts need a charging place somewhere on the premises that is equipped with an eyewash station and emergency acid spill kit because of the batteries. For safety reasons, the charging section should be ventilated well.
Propane
The modern forklift usually uses liquid propane. Propane provides different advantages over diesel and electric models. Like for instance, propane is normally cheaper compared to electricity. When recharging the battery, there is no need to remove the lift truck from service.
Propane units also provide a much cleaner operation compared to forklifts that are powered by diesel. In most cases, a propane forklift is refueled by just changing out the empty propane tank with a new one which is full. Typically, an off-site supplier will re-fill the tanks. This guarantees an easy, safe and fast re-fueling procedure.
Diesel and Gasoline
Since forklifts that utilize diesel or gasoline produce smelly exhaust, they require more maintenance. They have fairly high fuel costs too. As they have a useful and much longer lifespan, they are quite reliable compared to electric or propane models. Re-fueling needs a fuel supply on site which follows strict safety and health codes. Gas and diesel models are mostly used on rough terrain in outdoor applications, like for example in lumber yard environments or on construction sites.