Basic Kinds of Fuels Utilized for Forklifts
Forklifts, also called powered lift trucks, are utilized to carry out various jobs in industrial, construction and distribution environments. These heavy-duty equipment are intended to be tough and dependable so they can transport heavy objects in all different kinds of conditions and environments. Forklifts are powered by many kinds of fuels and thus can adapt to lots of different work settings.
Electricity
The electric models generate no emissions and reliable and quiet. These units are powered by industrial-strength large batteries which are made to be able to be successfully recharged about 1500 times throughout their useful lifespan. Because electric forklifts create no exhaust fumes, it is oftentimes the machinery of choice and necessity in areas that have inadequate ventilation. These forklifts require a charging station anywhere on the premises that is equipped with an eyewash station and emergency acid spill kit due to the batteries. For safety reasons, the charging area has to be well ventilated.
Propane
Liquid propane is a common source of power for the modern forklift. Propane provides different advantages over diesel and electric models. For example, propane is normally cheaper compared to electricity. When recharging the battery, there is no need to remove the forklift from service.
Additionally, compared to diesel powered models, propane units offer a much cleaner operation. In most instances, a propane forklift could be refueled by just changing out the propane tank that is empty with a new one that is full. Typically, an off-site supplier would re-fill the tanks. This guarantees an easy, fast and safe re-fueling procedure.
Diesel and Gasoline
As 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 rather reliable compared to electric or propane models. Re-fueling requires a fuel supply on site that follows strict safety and health codes. Gas and diesel models are mainly used in outdoor applications on rough terrain, like on construction sites or in lumber yard environments.