Basic Kinds of Fuels Utilized for Forklifts
In construction, distribution and industrial environments, powered lift trucks or forklifts are usually used to perform numerous tasks. These heavy-duty machines are designed to be tough and reliable so they can move heavy objects in all different kinds of environments and conditions. Forklifts are powered by many types of fuels and therefore can adapt to lots of different work settings.
Electricity
The electric models generate no emissions and reliable and quiet. These units could run on industrial-strength large batteries which are made to be able to be successfully recharged roughly 1500 times throughout their useful lifespan. As electric forklifts produce no exhaust fumes, it is usually the machinery of necessity and choice in areas which have inadequate ventilation. These forklifts require a charging station anywhere on the premises which is equipped with an eyewash station and emergency acid spill kit because of the batteries. For safety reasons, the charging section needs to be ventilated well.
Propane
The modern forklift normally uses liquid propane. Propane provides various advantages over diesel and electric models. Like for instance, propane normally costs less compared to electricity. While 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 is refueled by just changing out the propane tank which is empty with a new one which is full. Typically, an off-site supplier will re-fill the tanks. This guarantees a safe, easy and fast re-fueling process.
Diesel and Gasoline
Because forklifts that use gasoline or diesel produce smelly exhaust, they need more maintenance. They have relatively high fuel costs as well. Because they have a much longer and useful lifespan, they are rather reliable than propane or electric models. Re-fueling needs a fuel supply on site that follows strict health and safety codes. Gas and diesel models are mostly used in outdoor applications on rough terrain, like for instance in lumber yard environments or on construction sites.