Basic Kinds of Fuels Utilized for Forklifts
Forklifts, also known as powered lift trucks, are used to do various tasks in distribution, industrial and construction environments. These heavy-duty equipment are designed to be tough and reliable so they could move heavy items in all different types of environments and conditions. Forklifts could run on various types of fuels and hence able to adapt to lots of different work settings.
Electricity
The electric models produce no emissions and quiet and reliable. These units could run on industrial-strength large batteries that are made to be able to be successfully recharged about 1500 times throughout their functional lifespan. As electric forklifts generate no exhaust fumes, it is oftentimes the machinery of choice and necessity in places which have inadequate ventilation. These forklifts require a charging station somewhere on the premises which is equipped with an eyewash station and emergency acid spill kit due to the batteries. For safety reasons, the charging area has to be ventilated well.
Propane
The modern forklift normally uses liquid propane. Propane offers various advantages over electric and diesel models. For instance, propane is usually cheaper than electricity. When recharging the battery, there is no need to remove the lift truck from service.
Furthermore, compared to diesel powered models, propane units offer a much cleaner operation. In the majority of cases, a propane forklift can be refueled by just changing out the empty propane tank with a new one which is full. Typically, an off-site supplier would re-fill the tanks. This ensures an easy, fast and safe re-fueling process.
Gasoline and Diesel
As forklifts which use 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 electric or propane models. Re-fueling needs a fuel supply on site which conforms to strict safety and health codes. Diesel and gas models are mainly utilized on rough terrain in outdoor applications, such as on construction sites or in lumber yard environments.