Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
In industrial, construction and distribution settings, powered lift trucks or forklifts are commonly used to perform a lot of tasks. These heavy-duty machinery are designed to be dependable and tough so they are capable of transporting heavy things in all different types of environments and conditions. Forklifts could operate on many types of fuels and thus able to adapt to a lot of different work settings.
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 about 1500 times throughout their functional lifespan. As electric forklifts generate no exhaust fumes, it is oftentimes the machine of necessity and choice in areas which have inadequate ventilation. These forklifts need a charging place somewhere on the premises that is equipped with an emergency acid spill kit and eyewash station due to the batteries. For safety reasons, the charging section needs to be well ventilated.
Propane
Liquid propane is a common power source for the modern forklift. Propane provides different benefits over electric and diesel models. For instance, propane is usually cheaper than electricity. When the battery is being recharged, there is no need to remove the forklift from service.
Moreover, compared to diesel powered models, propane units provide 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 full one. Typically, an off-site supplier will re-fill the tanks. This guarantees an easy, safe and fast re-fueling process.
Gasoline and Diesel
Since 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 much longer and useful lifespan, they are rather reliable than propane or electric models. Re-fueling requires a fuel supply on site which follows strict safety and health codes. Gas and diesel models are mainly used on rough terrain in outdoor applications, such as on construction sites or in lumber yard environments.