Basic Kinds of Fuels Used for Forklifts
Forklifts, also known as powered lift trucks, are utilized to do many tasks in distribution, industrial and construction settings. These heavy-duty machinery are designed to be tough and dependable so they could transport heavy items in all different types of environments and conditions. Forklifts are powered by many types of fuels and therefore able to adapt to lots of different work settings.
Electricity
The electric models generate no emissions and quiet and reliable. These units are powered by industrial-strength large batteries that are made to be able to be successfully recharged approximately one thousand five hundred times during their functional lifespan. As electric forklifts produce no exhaust fumes, it is oftentimes the machinery of necessity and choice in places that have inadequate ventilation. These forklifts require a charging station somewhere 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 has to be well ventilated.
Propane
The modern forklift usually uses liquid propane. Propane provides different advantages over electric and diesel models. Like for example, propane is normally cheaper compared to electricity. While the battery is being recharged, 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 instances, a propane forklift can be refueled by just changing out the empty propane tank with a new one which is full. Typically, an off-site supplier will re-fill the tanks. This guarantees a fast, safe and easy re-fueling procedure.
Diesel and Gasoline
As forklifts that use gasoline or diesel produce smelly exhaust, they require more maintenance. They have fairly high fuel costs as well. As they have a much longer and useful lifespan, they are rather dependable compared to electric or propane models. Re-fueling requires a fuel supply on site which conforms to strict health and safety codes. Diesel and gas models are mainly utilized on rough terrain in outdoor applications, such as in lumber yard environments or on construction sites.