Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Forklifts, also referred to as powered lift trucks, are used to perform numerous jobs in industrial, construction and distribution environments. These heavy-duty machines are designed to be dependable and tough so they could transport heavy things in all different types of conditions and environments. Forklifts can run on various types of fuels and therefore can adapt to many different work environments.
Electricity
The electric models generate 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 throughout their functional lifespan. Because electric forklifts generate no exhaust fumes, it is usually the machinery of necessity and choice in areas which have inadequate ventilation. These forklifts require a charging station somewhere on the premises that is equipped with an eyewash station and emergency acid spill kit due to 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 is normally cheaper compared to electricity. When recharging the battery, there is no need to remove the lift truck from service.
Additionally, compared to diesel powered models, propane units offer a much cleaner operation. In the majority of cases, a propane forklift is refueled by just changing out the empty propane tank with a new one which is full. Typically, an off-site supplier would re-fill the tanks. This guarantees a safe, easy and fast re-fueling procedure.
Diesel and Gasoline
Gasoline and diesel forklifts could require more maintenance and produce a smelly exhaust. They have fairly high fuel costs as well. Since they have a much longer and useful lifespan, they are quite dependable than propane or electric models. Re-fueling requires a fuel supply on site that follows strict safety and health codes. Diesel and gas models are mainly used in outdoor applications on rough terrain, such as on construction sites or in lumber yard environments.