propane-powered forklifts vs electric forklifts
As a forklift operator, I imagine everyone has their preference as to what kind of forklift they like better. I know I do, at least for the sit-down forklifts. Some people may not have a preference, though; that is up to the individual and the circumstances. Regardless of which one a person prefers, there are pros and cons to both kinds.
Here you have your propane-powered forklift. Let us examine the good and the bad regarding this piece of equipment:
GOOD
- Speed: These forklifts can go up to a decent speed. Depending on the model, they can reach up to 18 mph or faster.
- Duration: A full tank can last up to two weeks or more, depending on the usage, which can save the company some money from having to order propane tanks once or more a week. That can be costly.
BAD
- Acceleration: If you like to move quickly, you're going to need a little bit of patience with these kinds, especially if you're just learning how to operate one. They are not the fastest at acceleration.
- Changing Tanks: For the most part, changing tanks when the one you have is empty is not problematic. However, there are times when you run out of fuel at the most inappropriate time, which is indeed a problem. If you don't have access to where they store the propane tanks, you will have to find someone who does. This causes delays in job performance. Of course running out of fuel is inevitable, but I myself am used to working in a fast-paced environment, and I try to avoid delays as much as possible. It is vital to keep an eye on the dashboard for the low-fuel indicator to light up. Failure to do so can result in a tough situation where your forklift dies all the way on the other side of the warehouse, and having to carry a tank to and from the propane station takes time. If that happens and you're on the other side of the building, bring a dolly with you if possible to make carrying the full tank easier. By paying attention to the low-fuel indicator, you can reach the propane station in time to change tanks right there at the station and avoid a lot of unnecessary work.
This is the electric forklift. Like the propane-powered lifts these have pros and cons to them as well.
GOOD
- Acceleration: These are quick to get into action, which are great for fast-paced work environments where your work area is not that big. Getting started with them isn't a problem.
- Handling: The electric forklifts tend to handle well, allowing you to move quicker. Depending on the environment, though, that may or may not matter.
- Multiple Horns: Depending on the specific model, they may have more than one button to press to honk the horn. This is very useful when going in reverse. If the one you're using has a handle with a button at the back of the lift, honking to alert people of your presence while going in reverse is easier.
BAD
- Battery Charging: It is recommended to always charge the forklift during every break—the shorter breaks as well as the lunch breaks. If your battery runs out of power and you're not close to the charging station, you will have a big problem on your hands because you will not be able to change batteries like propane tanks. You will need a means of pushing/pulling that huge piece of equipment all the way to the station.
- Duration: Battery life isn't great on these kinds of lifts. They will run out of power quickly if you're not paying attention, and if you're working more than eight hours in a shift they will drain that much faster. Be sure to charge the lift during every break, and especially at the end of the shift!
- Overall Speed: Though the electric lifts have great starting power, their top speed tends to be lower than the propane forklifts. But depending on the environment, that may or may not matter. In larger areas, yes, but in smaller areas it's not a problem.
As you can see there are ups and downs to both kinds of forklifts. I provided the pros and cons based on my own experience. If you have a choice, go with the one that suits you and what you are trying to do. If you don't have a choice, I'm sure you'll be able to get the job done anyway!