Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Powered lift trucks known as forklifts are utilized in almost every business to move heavy items and materials. The lift truck is a really durable and dependable equipment which has become essential tools in many warehouse and construction settings. Lift truck units vary depending on the type of work environment and the kind of fuel that is used to power the lift truck.
Electricity
Electric powered lift trucks are best for indoor settings, or in places with limited ventilation as they make no exhaust fumes. They are designed with industrial strength batteries. Because the electric lift truck batteries must be charging, the worksite should have 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 situated in a ventilated area and include an acid spill kit and an emergency eyewash station.
Propane
Forklifts powered by liquid propane have several advantages over electric and diesel powered machines making them quite common in industrial and warehouse settings. 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 of electricity is more than 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 very safe and efficient.
Diesel and Gasoline
For rough terrain and outdoor applications, the diesel and gas forklifts are the machinery of choice. These machines are fairly common in lumber yards and on construction sites. Their disadvantages include odorous exhaust, fairly high fuel costs and fairly high maintenance requirements. Their advantages include a longer lifespan than other units and reliability in tough conditions. Gasoline and diesel units must be refueled at a supply station on site that meets safety and health policies.