Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Powered lift trucks known as forklifts are utilized in almost every business to move heavy products and materials. The lift truck is a really tough and reliable equipment that has become important tools in numerous warehouse and construction environments. Lift truck models differ depending on the kind of work environment and the kind of fuel which is used to power the lift truck.
Electricity
Electric forklifts are great for work sites that have limited ventilation since they produce no exhaust fumes and are relatively quiet. They are designed to be powered by large, industrial-strength batteries. As the electric forklift batteries must be charging, the worksite should have a charging station. The batteries are durable and could 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 emergency eyewash station and an acid spill kit.
Propane
Forklifts powered by liquid propane have some advantages over diesel and electric powered equipment making them fairly common in industrial and warehouse 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 than the cost of propane. A forklift propane tank can be refueled quickly and easily by changing out the empty tank with a full tank. Usually an off-site supplier refills the empty tank, making refueling very 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 fairly common in lumber yards and on construction sites. Their disadvantages comprise fairly high fuel costs, fairly high maintenance requirements and odorous exhaust. Their advantages comprise dependability in tough conditions and a longer lifespan than other units. Diesel and gasoline units must be refueled at a supply station on site that meets safety and health regulations.