Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Forklifts are powered lift trucks which are used in various kinds of industries to move heavy supplies and items. Forklifts are durable and dependable equipment which are necessary tools in construction and warehouse environments. Lift truck models differ depending on the kind of work environment and the type of fuel that is used to power the lift truck.
Electricity
Electric powered lift trucks are great for indoor settings, or in places with limited ventilation as they make no exhaust fumes. They are designed with industrial strength batteries. Since the electric lift truck batteries need charging, the worksite must have a charging station. The batteries are tough and can be re-charged up to 1,500 times before they need to be replaced. The charging station must be located 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 electric and diesel powered machines making them quite common in industrial and warehouse environments. Propane engines are a lot cleaner compared to diesel-powered units. There is no down time needed to recharge an industrial battery, and the cost for propane is less compared to the cost of electricity. 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 really safe and efficient.
Diesel and Gasoline
For rough terrain and outdoor applications, the diesel and gas forklifts are the machines of choice. These machinery are quite common in lumber yards and on construction sites. Their disadvantages comprise odorous exhaust, fairly high fuel costs and relatively high maintenance requirements. Their advantages include a longer lifespan compared to other units and reliability in tough conditions. Gasoline and diesel units will have to be refueled at a supply station on site which meets health and safety policies.