Basic Types of Fuels Utilized for Forklifts
Forklifts, also called powered lift trucks, are utilized to carry out various jobs in distribution, industrial and construction settings. These heavy-duty machinery are designed to be reliable and tough so they can move heavy things in all different types of conditions and environments. Forklifts can run on many types of fuels and hence could 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 roughly one thousand five hundred times in their functional lifespan. Because electric forklifts generate no exhaust fumes, it is oftentimes the machinery of necessity and choice in areas that have inadequate ventilation. These forklifts need a charging station 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 has to be well ventilated.
Propane
Liquid propane is a common source of power for the modern lift truck. Propane offers various benefits over diesel and electric models. For instance, propane normally costs less compared to electricity. When recharging the battery, 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 most cases, a propane forklift can be refueled by just 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 an easy, fast and safe re-fueling procedure.
Diesel and Gasoline
As forklifts that utilize gasoline or diesel produce smelly exhaust, they need more maintenance. They have fairly high fuel costs as well. Since they have a useful and much longer lifespan, they are quite reliable compared to propane or electric models. Re-fueling requires a fuel supply on site which conforms to strict safety and health codes. Diesel and gas models are mainly utilized in outdoor applications on rough terrain, such as in lumber yard environments or on construction sites.