There are 2 main forklift fuel varieties and types that are mostly used within the marketplace: electric lift trucks and internal combustion or IC forklifts.
Usually, electric forklifts are used away from the elements within indoor operations. These units are easier to use in a confined warehouse space. They produce no emissions which have to be collected or vented and are a lot quieter to operate.
The internal combustion lift truck on the other hand are great in outdoor operations and are most common on construction sites or on external loading docks. These models come with a less upfront cost. Additionally, internal combustion forklifts are faster to refuel than the electric units, since these require several hours of recharging time for their internal batteries.
If your company does choose an IC model, the next decision which is usually faced is the fuel type which you would use to power your machine. There are some newer hybrid models on the market, but the most common kinds of fuel are gasoline, propane or diesel lift trucks.
When deciding on the best lift truck for your business, it is a great idea to go over the disadvantages and advantages which a particular kind of lift will bring to your business. Like for example, will a propane lift be right for your particular business or application? Make time to read on to be able to find out more.
One of the best advantages propane lift trucks have to offer is their immense flexibility. They are the easiest and fastest models to refill which is a great thing to take into consideration as it significantly minimizes downtime on your warehouse floor. Like for example, electric lifts need hours to recharge and diesel forklifts require an on-site storage tank and pump system. Conversely, propane cylinders require no lift or crane to handle them and are fairly fast to swap out.
The biggest drawback of propane expenses would likely be their ongoing expenses. The repair costs and regular maintenance would be more frequent with these models as compared to gasoline or diesel forklifts. In addition, fuel costs are usually higher on propane models as composed to gas or diesel. It is essential to consider the fact that fuel costs could greatly differ from place to place.