Propane Forklifts
Besides the inconvenience of having to change the propane cylinder, there is little risk associated with running out of fuel with propane forklifts. These units are quite a bit lower in their value compared to electric and diesel forklifts. The discussion to whether or not the propane emissions are cleaner than diesel emissions continues within the business.
Performance wise, propane forklifts seem to handle better compared to the majority of electric units available on the market when the task requires high applications and constant duty drive line torque. There are several electric units that are supposed to handle better or equally. Depending on the particular circumstances, propane lifts might or might not be suitable for handling food and edible goods. As long as WorkSafeBC criteria are met, propane forklifts are acceptable for the majority of indoor use.
The Disadvantages of LPG Propane Forklifts
The LPG's key disadvantages when compare to the diesel lift truck includes the fact that they are not as effective when performing tasks which 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. In addition, operators have to be trained on the safe handling of propane fuel. The rearward visibility off of the back end of the counterweight is restricted. This is because of the location of the propane tank.
Compared to diesel and electric units, cost of fuel is higher with propane models. There are possible injury claims due to the frequency and weight that propane tanks are changed; around every 6 hours of usage unless the place has a bulk fill station located there. Propane lift trucks can be trickier to start and run smoothly when they are utilized in cold temperatures. In remote locations, propane fuel is not always available at once. In the next few decades, the fossil fuel cost is projected to climb significantly. Take into consideration and plan for overall repair maintenance costs, as well as the total cost of ownership to be the highest of the 3 options.
Depending upon what your specific applications are, there is certainly a possibility that the LPG forklift units would be ideal for you. It is best to consider your specific loads and lifting needs in addition to the kinds of environments you will be utilizing the machinery in order to be certain that you buy the best model that will meet all your requirements.