Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Forklifts, also known as powered lift trucks, are used to carry out numerous jobs in distribution, industrial and construction environments. These heavy-duty machines are intended to be tough and reliable so they can transport heavy objects in all different types of conditions and environments. Forklifts are powered by various types of fuels and therefore can adapt to many different work environments.
Electricity
The electric models produce 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 approximately one thousand five hundred times in their useful lifespan. Because electric forklifts produce no exhaust fumes, it is oftentimes the machine of choice and necessity in places that have inadequate ventilation. These forklifts need a charging place anywhere on the premises that is equipped with an emergency acid spill kit and eyewash station because of the batteries. For safety reasons, the charging section needs to be well ventilated.
Propane
The modern forklift normally uses liquid propane. Propane offers various benefits over electric and diesel models. For instance, propane is normally cheaper than electricity. While the battery is being recharged, 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 the majority of instances, a propane forklift could be refueled by just changing out the empty propane tank with a new one that is full. Typically, an off-site supplier would 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 need 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 needs a fuel supply on site that follows strict health and safety codes. Diesel and gas models are mostly utilized on rough terrain in outdoor applications, such as on construction sites or in lumber yard environments.