Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Powered lift trucks called forklifts are utilized in almost every business to move heavy products and supplies. The forklift is a very tough and reliable machine that has become important tools in a lot of warehouse and construction settings. Forklift units differ depending on the kind of fuel that is utilized to power the lift truck and the type of work setting.
Electricity
Electric forklifts are great for work sites which have limited ventilation since they produce no exhaust fumes and are fairly quiet. They are designed to be powered by industrial-strength, large batteries. As the electric forklift batteries need charging, the worksite would require a charging station. The batteries are tough and could be re-charged up to 1,500 times before they have 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
Forklifts powered by liquid propane have some benefits over diesel and electric powered machinery making them quite common in warehouse and industrial environments. Propane engines are a lot cleaner compared to 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 refueled easily and quickly by changing out the empty tank with a full tank. Typically an off-site supplier refills the empty tank, making refueling very safe and efficient.
Diesel and Gasoline
For outdoor applications and rough terrain, the gas and diesel forklifts are the machines of choice. These machinery are fairly common in lumber yards and on construction sites. Their disadvantages comprise odorous exhaust, relatively high fuel costs and fairly high maintenance requirements. Their advantages include 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 health and safety policies.