Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Forklifts, also called powered lift trucks, are utilized to perform various tasks in construction, distribution and industrial settings. These heavy-duty machinery are intended to be tough and reliable so they can move heavy objects in all different types of conditions and environments. Forklifts can operate on numerous kinds of fuels and therefore able to adapt to many different work environments.
Electricity
The electric models produce no emissions and reliable and quiet. These units are powered by industrial-strength large batteries that are made to be able to be successfully recharged about one thousand five hundred times during their useful lifespan. Because electric forklifts create no exhaust fumes, it is oftentimes the machinery of necessity and choice in areas which have inadequate ventilation. These forklifts require a charging place somewhere on the premises which is equipped with an emergency acid spill kit and eyewash station due to the batteries. For safety reasons, the charging area needs to be well ventilated.
Propane
Liquid propane is a common power source for the modern lift truck. Propane offers different benefits over electric and diesel models. Like for example, propane is usually cheaper than electricity. While the battery is being recharged, there is no need to remove the forklift from service.
In addition, compared to diesel powered models, propane units provide a much cleaner operation. In most cases, a propane forklift is refueled by simply changing out the empty propane tank with a new one that is full. Usually, an off-site supplier will re-fill the tanks. This guarantees a fast, safe and easy re-fueling procedure.
Diesel and Gasoline
Since forklifts that use diesel or gasoline produce smelly exhaust, they require more maintenance. They have relatively high fuel costs too. Since they have a much longer and useful lifespan, they are quite dependable than propane or electric models. Re-fueling needs a fuel supply on site that follows strict safety and health codes. Diesel and gas models are mostly utilized on rough terrain in outdoor applications, like in lumber yard environments or on construction sites.