Propane Forklifts
Besides the bother of having to change the propane cylinder, there is little risk connected with running out of fuel with propane forklifts. These units are quite a bit lower in their purchase price compared to electric and diesel lift trucks. The debate to whether or not the propane emissions are cleaner than diesel emissions continues within the industry.
Performance wise, propane forklifts seem to handle better than the majority of electric units on the market when the job needs constant duty drive line torque and high applications. There are some electric units that are supposed to handle equally or better. Depending on the particular circumstances, propane lifts might or might not be suitable for handling eligible goods and food. Provided that WorkSafeBC criteria are met, propane forklifts are suitable for the majority of indoor use.
The Disadvantages of LPG Propane Forklifts
Some of the major disadvantages of LPG forklifts are that compared to diesel trucks consist of: they are not as effective in applications that need high and or constant duty drive line torque. These units have a liability exposure, because of the possibility of a fuel system leak while the truck is situated indoors. Moreover, operators need to be trained on the safe handling of propane fuel. The rearward visibility off of the counterweight's back end is limited. This is because of the propane tank's location.
The fuel cost is higher with propane models when compared to the diesel unit. Because of the frequency at which the propane tanks are changed, there are possible injuries which may occur. Unless a place has a bulk fill station, propane might require to be changed every six hours of use. Propane lift trucks could be trickier to start and run smoothly when they are operating in freezing temperatures. In remote places, propane fuel is not always available at once. Over the next few decades, the fossil fuel cost is projected to rise significantly. Consider and plan for overall expense or repair and maintenance, as well as the total cost of ownership to be the highest of the 3 alternatives.
Depending on what your specific applications are, there is definitely a possibility that the LPG forklift models will be ideal for you. It is better to consider your specific lifting requirements and loads along with the kinds of environments you will be using the machinery in order to be sure that you purchase the best unit that would suit your needs.