Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Forklifts are powered lift trucks which are utilized in various kinds of industries to move heavy supplies and products. Forklifts are durable and reliable equipment that are necessary tools in construction and warehouse environments. Lift truck units vary depending on the kind of fuel that is utilized to power the lift truck and the kind of work environment.
Electricity
Electric forklifts are great for work sites which have limited ventilation since they make no exhaust fumes and are fairly quiet. They are designed to be powered by large, industrial-strength batteries. As the electric forklift batteries should be charging, the worksite will need a charging station. The batteries are durable and can be re-charged up to 1,500 times before they need 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
Forklifts powered by liquid propane have several benefits over diesel and electric powered machines making them fairly common in warehouse and industrial environments. Propane engines are much cleaner 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 forklift propane tank can 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 really efficient and safe.
Gasoline and Gas
For outdoor applications and rough terrain, the diesel and gas forklifts are the machines of choice. These equipment are fairly common on construction sites and in lumber yards. Their disadvantages include odorous exhaust, fairly high fuel costs and relatively high maintenance requirements. Their benefits comprise dependability in tough conditions and a longer lifespan compared to other units. Gasoline and diesel units must be refueled at a supply station on site which meets safety and health policies.