Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Forklifts, also called powered lift trucks, are used to carry out many jobs in construction, distribution and industrial environments. These heavy-duty equipment are intended to be dependable and tough so they can transport heavy things in all different types of conditions and environments. Forklifts could run on various kinds of fuels and hence could adapt to lots of different work settings.
Electricity
The electric models generate no emissions and reliable and quiet. These units could operate on industrial-strength large batteries which are made to be able to be successfully recharged approximately one thousand five hundred times during their useful lifespan. Because electric forklifts produce no exhaust fumes, it is oftentimes the machine of choice and necessity in areas which have inadequate ventilation. These forklifts require a charging place anywhere on the premises that is equipped with an eyewash station and emergency acid spill kit due to 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 offers various benefits over electric and diesel models. For instance, propane normally costs less than electricity. When recharging the battery, there is no need to remove the lift truck from service.
Propane units also offer a much cleaner operation compared to forklifts which are powered by diesel. In most instances, a propane forklift could be refueled by just changing out the empty propane tank with a new full one. Typically, an off-site supplier will re-fill the tanks. This guarantees an easy, fast and safe re-fueling process.
Gasoline and Diesel
As forklifts that utilize diesel or gasoline produce smelly exhaust, they need more maintenance. They have fairly high fuel costs as well. Because they have a useful and much longer lifespan, they are quite reliable than propane or electric models. Re-fueling requires a fuel supply on site that conforms to strict health and safety codes. Gas and diesel models are mainly utilized in outdoor applications on rough terrain, like for instance in lumber yard environments or on construction sites.