Basic Fuel Types of Forklifts
Forklifts are powered lift trucks which are used in a wide variety of industries to move heavy supplies and items. Forklifts are tough and reliable equipment that are essential tools in construction and warehouse environments. Forklift models vary depending on the type of fuel which 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 sites with limited ventilation because they produce no exhaust fumes. They are designed with industrial strength batteries. Because the electric forklift batteries need charging, the worksite must 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 should be situated in a ventilated area and include an emergency eyewash station and an acid spill kit.
Propane
Forklifts powered by liquid propane have some benefits over electric and diesel powered equipment making them fairly common in warehouse and industrial environments. 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 quickly and easily refueled 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.
Diesel and Gasoline
For outdoor applications and rough terrain, the diesel and gas forklifts are the equipment of choice. These machinery are quite common in lumber yards and on construction sites. Their disadvantages include fairly high fuel costs, relatively high maintenance needs and odorous exhaust. Their benefits comprise reliability in tough conditions and a longer lifespan than other units. Gasoline and diesel units should be refueled at a supply station on site that meets health and safety policies.