Propane Forklifts
Other than the bother of having to change the propane cylinder, there is little risk connected with running out of fuel with propane forklifts. These models are rather a bit lower in their cost than electric and diesel lift trucks. The discussion 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 models on the market today on jobs which require high applications and constant duty drive line torque. There are several electric units that are supposed to handle equally or better. Depending on the specific situation, propane lifts might or might not be acceptable for handling eligible goods and food. As long as WorkSafeBC criteria are met, propane forklifts are acceptable for most indoor use.
The Drawbacks of LPG Propane Forklifts
The LPG's major drawbacks when compare to the diesel forklift includes the fact that they are not as effective when performing jobs that need high and or constant duty drive line torque. These models have a liability exposure, due to the possibility of a fuel system leak whilst the truck is located indoors. Moreover, operators should be trained on the safe handling of propane fuel. The rearward visibility off of the counterweight's back end is limited. This is due to the propane tank's location.
Compared to diesel and electric models, cost of fuel is higher with propane models. There are possible injury claims because of the weight and frequency that propane tanks are changed; about every 6 hours of usage unless the site has a bulk fill station situated there. Propane lift trucks could be more difficult to start and run smoothly when they are operating in freezing temperatures. In remote places, propane fuel is not always available at once. In the next few decades, the cost of fossil fuels is estimated to rise significantly. Consider and plan for overall repair maintenance costs, as well as the entire cost of ownership to be the highest of the 3 options.
Depending on what your particular applications are, there is definitely a possibility that the LPG forklift units will be perfect for you. It is better to take into consideration your specific lifting requirements and loads as well as the types of environments you would be operating in order to be sure that you invest in the best unit that would suit all your needs.