Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Forklifts are powered lift trucks which are utilized in various kinds of industries to move heavy supplies and items. Forklifts are durable and dependable machinery which are essential tools in construction and warehouse environments. Forklift units vary depending on the kind of work setting and the type of fuel which is utilized to power the lift truck.
Electricity
Electric forklifts are recommended for work sites that have limited ventilation because they produce no exhaust fumes and are fairly quiet. They are designed to be powered by industrial-strength, large batteries. As the electric lift truck batteries require charging, the worksite will require 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
Liquid propane powered forklifts are commonly utilized in modern industrial operations because propane has several benefits over diesel and electric. Propane models are cleaner to use than diesel-powered units. There is no down time needed to recharge an industrial battery, and the cost of electricity is more than the cost of propane. A forklift propane tank could be refueled easily and quickly 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.
Diesel and Gasoline
For outdoor applications and rough terrain, the diesel and gas forklifts are the machines of choice. These machinery are quite common on construction sites and in lumber yards. Their disadvantages comprise odorous exhaust, relatively high fuel costs and fairly high maintenance requirements. Their benefits include a longer lifespan than other units and dependability in tough conditions. Gasoline and diesel units will have to be refueled at a supply station on site that meets safety and health policies.