Basic Kinds of Fuels Utilized for Forklifts
In construction, distribution and industrial settings, powered lift trucks or forklifts are normally utilized to carry out numerous tasks. These heavy-duty machines are intended to be tough and reliable so they are capable of transporting heavy things in all different kinds of conditions and environments. Forklifts could operate on numerous kinds of fuels and hence able to adapt to many different work environments.
Electricity
Producing no emissions, the electric forklifts are very quiet and reliable. These units are powered by industrial-strength large batteries that are made to be able to be successfully recharged around one thousand five hundred times in their useful lifespan. As electric forklifts generate no exhaust fumes, it is usually the machine of necessity and choice in places that have limited ventilation. These forklifts require a charging place anywhere on the premises which is equipped with an emergency acid spill kit and eyewash station because of the batteries. For safety reasons, the charging section needs to be ventilated well.
Propane
The modern forklift usually utilizes liquid propane. Propane provides various benefits over electric and diesel models. For instance, propane normally costs less compared to electricity. When recharging the battery, there is no need to remove the forklift from service.
Moreover, compared to diesel powered models, propane units provide a much cleaner operation. In most instances, a propane forklift is refueled by simply changing out the empty propane tank with a new one that is full. Usually, an off-site supplier would re-fill the tanks. This ensures a safe, fast and easy re-fueling process.
Gasoline and Diesel
As forklifts that utilize diesel or gasoline produce smelly exhaust, they require more maintenance. They have relatively high fuel costs too. As they have a useful and much longer lifespan, they are rather reliable than electric or propane models. Re-fueling requires a fuel supply on site that conforms to strict health and safety codes. Diesel and gas models are mainly used on rough terrain in outdoor applications, like in lumber yard environments or on construction sites.