Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Powered lift trucks called forklifts are used in almost every business to move heavy items and supplies. The forklift is a very tough and reliable equipment which has become essential tools in a lot of construction and warehouse environments. Lift truck units differ depending on the kind 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 environments, or in locations with limited ventilation because they produce no exhaust fumes. They are designed with industrial strength batteries. As the electric lift truck batteries should be charging, the worksite must have a charging station. The batteries are durable and can be re-charged up to 1,500 times before they have to be replaced. The charging station should be located in a ventilated area and include an acid spill kit and an emergency eyewash station.
Propane
Forklifts powered by liquid propane have some advantages over electric and diesel powered equipment making them fairly common in industrial and warehouse settings. Propane engines are a lot cleaner than 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 forklift propane tank can be refueled quickly and easily by changing out the empty tank with a full tank. Normally an off-site supplier refills the empty tank, making refueling very safe and efficient.
Gasoline and Gas
For outdoor applications and rough terrain, the diesel and gas forklifts are the equipment of choice. These machines are quite common on construction sites and in lumber yards. Their disadvantages comprise odorous exhaust, fairly high fuel costs and fairly high maintenance needs. Their benefits include reliability in tough conditions and a longer lifespan than other units. Diesel and gasoline units must be refueled at a supply station on site which meets safety and health regulations.