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