Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Forklifts are powered lift trucks that are utilized in various kinds of industries to move heavy supplies and products. Forklifts are durable and dependable machinery that are necessary tools in construction and warehouse environments. Lift truck models vary depending on the type of fuel that is utilized to power the lift truck and the kind of work setting.
Electricity
Electric forklifts are great for work sites that have limited ventilation because they make no exhaust fumes and are relatively quiet. They are designed to be powered by industrial-strength, large batteries. As the electric forklift batteries should be charging, the worksite will require a charging station. The batteries are tough and can be re-charged up to 1,500 times before they need to be replaced. The charging station should be located in a ventilated area and include an acid spill kit and an emergency eyewash station.
Propane
Liquid propane powered forklifts are frequently utilized in modern industrial applications because propane has several advantages over diesel and electric. Propane models are cleaner to use 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 forklift propane tank could be easily and quickly refueled by changing out the empty tank with a full tank. Usually an off-site supplier refills the empty tank, making refueling very safe and efficient.
Gasoline and Gas
For outdoor applications and rough terrain, the gas and diesel forklifts are the machines of choice. These machinery are quite common in lumber yards and on construction sites. Their disadvantages include fairly high fuel costs, relatively high maintenance needs and odorous exhaust. Their advantages comprise reliability in tough conditions and a longer lifespan than other units. Gasoline and diesel units would have to be refueled at a supply station on site that meets safety and health policies.