Propane Forklifts
Other than the inconvenience of having to change the propane cylinder, there are some risks associated with running out of fuel with propane forklifts. These models are rather a bit lower in their cost than electric and diesel forklifts. The debate to whether or not the propane emissions are cleaner than diesel emissions continues in the business.
The propane lift truck performs better than the majority of electric units available on the market these days on jobs which require constant duty drive line torque and high applications. There are some electric units that are supposed to handle better or equally. Depending on the specific situation, propane lifts may or may not be suitable for handling food and edible goods. So long as WorkSafeBC criteria are met, propane lift trucks are acceptable for the majority of indoor applications.
The Disadvantages of LPG Propane Forklifts
Several of the major disadvantages of LPG lift trucks are that compared to diesel trucks include: they are not as effective in applications that require high and or constant duty drive line torque. These units have a liability exposure, due to the possibility of a fuel system leak whilst the truck is situated indoors. Additionally, operators have to be trained on the safe handling of propane fuel. The rearward visibility off of the counterweight's back end is restricted. This is due to the location of the propane tank.
The cost of fuel is higher with propane models when compared to the diesel unit. Due to the frequency at which the propane tanks are changed, there are possible injuries that might happen. Unless a site has a bulk fill station, propane might need to be changed every six hours of use. Propane forklifts can be harder to start and run smoothly when they are utilized in cold temperatures. In remote locations, propane fuel is not always readily available. Over the next few decades, the cost of fossil fuels is projected to rise dramatically. Take into consideration and plan for overall repair maintenance expenses, as well as the entire cost of ownership to be the highest of the 3 alternatives.
Depending upon what your particular applications are, there is certainly a possibility that the LPG forklift models will be perfect for you. It is best to take into consideration your specific lifting requirements and loads in addition to the kinds of environments you will be operating in an effort to be certain that you buy the best model that would suit all your needs.