Basic Types of Fuels Utilized for Forklifts
Forklifts, also called powered lift trucks, are utilized to do many tasks in industrial, construction and distribution settings. These heavy-duty equipment are designed to be dependable and tough so they can transport heavy things in all different kinds of conditions and environments. Forklifts are powered by various types of fuels and hence able to adapt to a lot of different work settings.
Electricity
The electric models produce no emissions and reliable and quiet. These units could run on industrial-strength large batteries that are made to be able to be successfully recharged roughly 1500 times during their useful lifespan. As electric forklifts produce no exhaust fumes, it is usually the machine of necessity and choice in areas which have limited ventilation. These forklifts need a charging place somewhere on the premises which is equipped with an eyewash station and emergency acid spill kit because of the batteries. For safety reasons, the charging area needs to be well ventilated.
Propane
Liquid propane is a common source of power for the modern forklift. Propane offers different benefits over electric and diesel models. For example, propane is normally cheaper compared to electricity. When recharging the battery, there is no need to remove the forklift from service.
In addition, compared to diesel powered models, propane units provide a much cleaner operation. In the majority of instances, a propane forklift can be refueled by simply changing out the empty propane tank with a new full one. Typically, an off-site supplier would re-fill the tanks. This ensures a safe, easy and fast re-fueling process.
Gasoline and Diesel
Since forklifts that use diesel or gasoline produce smelly exhaust, they need more maintenance. They have fairly high fuel costs as well. As they have a useful and much longer lifespan, they are quite dependable than propane or electric models. Re-fueling requires a fuel supply on site which conforms to strict health and safety codes. Diesel and gas models are mainly used on rough terrain in outdoor applications, like on construction sites or in lumber yard environments.