Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
In distribution, industrial and construction environments, forklifts or powered lift trucks are usually used to perform numerous tasks. These heavy-duty equipment are designed to be tough and reliable so they could transport heavy objects in all different types of conditions and environments. Forklifts can operate on many types of fuels and hence could 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 about 1500 times throughout their functional lifespan. Since electric forklifts generate no exhaust fumes, it is usually the machine of necessity and choice in places which have limited ventilation. These forklifts need a charging station somewhere on the premises that is equipped with an emergency acid spill kit and eyewash station because of the batteries. For safety reasons, the charging area must be ventilated well.
Propane
The modern forklift usually uses liquid propane. Propane provides different advantages over diesel and electric models. Like for instance, propane usually costs less compared to electricity. When the battery is being recharged, there is no need to remove the lift truck from service.
Additionally, compared to diesel powered models, propane units provide a much cleaner operation. In the majority of cases, a propane forklift is refueled by simply changing out the empty propane tank with a new full one. Usually, an off-site supplier would re-fill the tanks. This ensures a fast, safe and easy re-fueling process.
Gasoline and Diesel
Because forklifts which use gasoline or diesel produce smelly exhaust, they require more maintenance. They have fairly high fuel costs as well. Since they have a much longer and useful lifespan, they are quite reliable than electric or propane models. Re-fueling requires a fuel supply on site that follows strict health and safety codes. Gas and diesel models are mainly used on rough terrain in outdoor applications, such as on construction sites or in lumber yard environments.