Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Forklifts are powered lift trucks that are utilized in a wide variety of industries to move heavy supplies and products. Forklifts are durable and dependable equipment that are essential tools in warehouse and construction settings. Lift truck units vary depending on the type of fuel that is used to power the lift truck and the type of work setting.
Electricity
Electric powered lift trucks are great for indoor environments, or in locations with limited ventilation as they make no exhaust fumes. They are designed with industrial strength batteries. As the electric lift truck batteries must be charging, the worksite must have a charging station. The batteries are durable and could be re-charged up to 1,500 times before they need to be replaced. The charging station must be located in a ventilated area and include an emergency eyewash station and an acid spill kit.
Propane
Forklifts powered by liquid propane have some advantages over electric and diesel powered equipment making them quite common in industrial and warehouse environments. Propane engines are a lot cleaner than diesel-powered units. There is no down time needed to recharge an industrial battery, and the cost for propane is less compared to the cost of electricity. A lift truck propane tank can be refueled easily and quickly by changing out the empty tank with a full tank. Normally an off-site supplier refills the empty tank, making refueling really efficient and safe.
Gasoline and Gas
For rough terrain and outdoor applications, the diesel and gas forklifts are the machines of choice. These machines are fairly common on construction sites and in lumber yards. Their disadvantages include relatively high fuel costs, fairly high maintenance needs and odorous exhaust. Their advantages include dependability in tough conditions and a longer lifespan compared to other units. Diesel and gasoline units should be refueled at a supply station on site which meets health and safety regulations.