Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Powered lift trucks referred to as forklifts are used in almost every business to move heavy products and materials. The forklift is a very tough and reliable machine that has become essential tools in a lot of warehouse and construction settings. Forklift units vary depending on the kind of work setting and the type of fuel which is used to power the lift truck.
Electricity
Electric forklifts are recommended for work sites that have limited ventilation because they make no exhaust fumes and are fairly quiet. They are designed to be powered by large, industrial-strength batteries. As the electric lift truck batteries require charging, the worksite will require a charging station. The batteries are tough 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 several benefits over electric and diesel powered equipment making them fairly common in industrial and warehouse environments. Propane engines are much cleaner compared to diesel-powered units. There is no down time required to recharge an industrial battery, and the cost for propane is less than the cost of electricity. A forklift propane tank could be refueled easily and quickly by changing out the empty tank with a full tank. Typically an off-site supplier refills the empty tank, making refueling very safe and efficient.
Diesel and Gasoline
For outdoor applications and rough terrain, the gas and diesel forklifts are the equipment of choice. These machines are fairly common on construction sites and in lumber yards. Their disadvantages include fairly high maintenance needs, odorous exhaust and fairly high fuel costs. Their advantages comprise a longer lifespan than other units and reliability in tough conditions. Gasoline and diesel units must be refueled at a supply station on site which meets safety and health policies.