Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Forklifts, also known as powered lift trucks, are utilized to do numerous jobs in construction, distribution and industrial settings. These heavy-duty machinery are intended to be reliable and tough so they could move heavy things in all different types of conditions and environments. Forklifts can operate on numerous types of fuels and therefore can adapt to many different work settings.
Electricity
The electric models generate no emissions and reliable and quiet. These units could run on industrial-strength large batteries that are made to be able to be successfully recharged around 1500 times during their functional lifespan. As electric forklifts create no exhaust fumes, it is oftentimes the machine of choice and necessity in places which have inadequate ventilation. These forklifts need a charging place anywhere on the premises which is equipped with an emergency acid spill kit and eyewash station because of the batteries. For safety reasons, the charging area must be well ventilated.
Propane
Liquid propane is a common power source for the modern lift truck. Propane provides different advantages over electric and diesel models. Like for example, propane is usually cheaper compared to electricity. When the battery is being recharged, there is no need to remove the forklift from service.
Additionally, compared to diesel powered models, propane units provide a much cleaner operation. In the majority of instances, a propane forklift is refueled by simply changing out the propane tank that is empty with a new one that is full. Usually, an off-site supplier would re-fill the tanks. This guarantees a safe, easy and fast re-fueling procedure.
Gasoline and Diesel
Because forklifts which utilize gasoline or diesel produce smelly exhaust, they need more maintenance. They have relatively high fuel costs as well. Since they have a useful and much longer lifespan, they are rather dependable compared to propane or electric models. Re-fueling requires a fuel supply on site that conforms to strict safety and health codes. Diesel and gas models are mainly utilized in outdoor applications on rough terrain, like in lumber yard environments or on construction sites.