Basic Kinds of Fuels Utilized for Forklifts
In distribution, industrial and construction settings, forklifts or powered lift trucks are normally used to perform a lot of jobs. These heavy-duty equipment are designed to be dependable and tough so they could move heavy objects in all different types of conditions and environments. Forklifts could run on numerous types of fuels and thus able to adapt to many different work environments.
Electricity
The electric models produce no emissions and reliable and quiet. These units are powered by industrial-strength large batteries that are made to be able to be successfully recharged roughly 1500 times during their useful lifespan. Since electric forklifts generate no exhaust fumes, it is usually the machinery of necessity and choice in places that have inadequate ventilation. These forklifts need a charging station somewhere on the premises that is equipped with an eyewash station and emergency acid spill kit because of the batteries. For safety reasons, the charging section needs to be well ventilated.
Propane
The modern forklift normally uses liquid propane. Propane provides various advantages over diesel and electric models. For instance, propane usually costs less than electricity. When recharging the battery, there is no need to remove the forklift from service.
Moreover, compared to diesel powered models, propane units offer a much cleaner operation. In most instances, a propane forklift can be refueled by just changing out the empty propane tank with a new full one. Usually, an off-site supplier would re-fill the tanks. This guarantees an easy, fast and safe re-fueling process.
Diesel and Gasoline
Because forklifts which use 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 rather dependable compared to propane or electric models. Re-fueling needs a fuel supply on site that follows strict safety and health codes. Gas and diesel models are mostly used in outdoor applications on rough terrain, such as on construction sites or in lumber yard environments.