Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Powered lift trucks referred to as forklifts are utilized in almost every business to move heavy products and supplies. The lift truck is a very tough and dependable equipment that has become important tools in a lot of construction and warehouse settings. Lift truck units vary depending on the kind of fuel that is used to power the lift truck and the type of work setting.
Electricity
Electric powered lift trucks are great for indoor settings, or in locations with limited ventilation as they make no exhaust fumes. They are designed with industrial strength batteries. Because the electric forklift batteries should be charging, the worksite will require a charging station. The batteries are durable 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 emergency eyewash station and an acid spill kit.
Propane
Forklifts powered by liquid propane have some advantages over electric and diesel powered machinery making them fairly common in industrial and warehouse settings. Propane engines are much cleaner compared to diesel-powered units. There is no down time needed to recharge an industrial battery, and the cost of electricity is more compared to the cost of propane. A lift truck propane tank can be quickly and easily refueled by changing out the empty tank with a full tank. Usually an off-site supplier refills the empty tank, making refueling really safe and efficient.
Gasoline and Gas
For outdoor applications and rough terrain, 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 maintenance requirements, odorous exhaust and relatively high fuel costs. Their advantages comprise dependability in tough conditions and a longer lifespan compared to other units. Diesel and gasoline units would have to be refueled at a supply station on site that meets health and safety regulations.