Propane Forklifts
Other than the inconvenience of having to change the propane cylinder, there is little risk connected with running out of fuel with propane forklifts. These units are quite a bit lower in their value compared to diesel and electric forklifts. The discussion to whether or not the propane emissions are cleaner than diesel emissions continues in the industry.
Performance wise, propane lift trucks seem to handle better compared to the majority of electric units available on the market when the task needs high applications and constant duty drive line torque. There are several electric units that are supposed to handle better or equally. Depending on the specific circumstances, propane lifts might or might not be suitable for handling food and edible goods. As long as WorkSafeBC criteria are met, propane lift trucks are acceptable for the majority of indoor use.
The Disadvantages of LPG Propane Forklifts
Several of the key disadvantages of LPG forklifts 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 models have a liability exposure, due to the possibility of a fuel system leak while the truck is located indoors. In addition, operators must be trained on the safe use of propane fuel. The rearward visibility off of the back end of the counterweight is restricted. This is because of the location of the propane tank.
Compared to electric and diesel units, cost of fuel is higher with propane models. There are possible injury claims because of the weight and frequency that propane tanks are changed; roughly every 6 hours of usage unless the place has a bulk fill station located there. Propane lift trucks could be trickier to start and run smoothly when they are utilized in cold temperatures. In remote places, propane fuel is not always available at once. Over the next few decades, the fossil fuel cost is estimated to rise significantly. Consider and plan for overall repair maintenance costs, as well as the total cost of ownership to be the highest of the 3 alternatives.
Depending on what your particular applications are, there is definitely a possibility that the LPG forklift units would be ideal for you. It is best to take into account your particular loads and lifting requirements as well as the types of environments you would be operating to be able to be certain that you invest in the best unit that will meet your needs.