Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
In industrial, construction and distribution settings, forklifts or powered lift trucks are usually used to perform a lot of tasks. These heavy-duty equipment are intended to be tough and dependable so they could transport heavy objects in all different kinds of environments and conditions. Forklifts could operate on numerous kinds of fuels and therefore able to adapt to a lot of different work settings.
Electricity
The electric models produce no emissions and quiet and reliable. These units could operate on industrial-strength large batteries that are made to be able to be successfully recharged around one thousand five hundred times in their functional lifespan. Because electric forklifts create no exhaust fumes, it is oftentimes the machine of necessity and choice in areas which have limited ventilation. These forklifts require a charging place somewhere on the premises that is equipped with an eyewash station and emergency acid spill kit due to the batteries. For safety reasons, the charging section must be well ventilated.
Propane
The modern forklift normally utilizes liquid propane. Propane provides various benefits over electric and diesel models. Like for example, propane is normally cheaper than electricity. When the battery is being recharged, there is no need to remove the lift truck from service.
In addition, compared to diesel powered models, propane units offer a much cleaner operation. In most cases, a propane forklift is refueled by simply changing out the propane tank which is empty with a new one which is full. Typically, an off-site supplier would re-fill the tanks. This guarantees a fast, safe and easy re-fueling procedure.
Diesel and Gasoline
Because forklifts that use gasoline or diesel produce smelly exhaust, they require more maintenance. They have relatively high fuel costs too. As they have a useful and much longer lifespan, they are rather reliable than 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 in outdoor applications on rough terrain, like for example in lumber yard environments or on construction sites.