Because propane gas is non-toxic and a very low pollution fuel, it can be used to safely power forklifts indoors. Propane gas can be used in factories and warehouses to keep workers warm; provide heat for industrial manufacturing processes; and supply efficient, cost-effective water heating. And because propane is clean-burning, it is an ideal energy source for fueling burners of all kinds.
From an investment standpoint, there may be no better way to meet the material handling requirements of a warehouse or factory than with forklifts powered by propane gas. Initial costs for propane gas equipment can be as much as 35 percent lower than equipment powered by other fuels.
Propane-fueled forklifts are faster than those fueled by other energy sources. This is true whether the forklift is empty or loaded with heavy materials. Propane-fueled forklifts handle steep grades and ramps with more power and speed than those powered by other fuels. The level of performance achieved with propane gas forklifts can easily be maintained 24 hours per day, since all that is necessary to keep them running is a simple refueling procedure. On a cost-performance basis, gasoline, electric battery-powered and compressed natural gas lift trucks are not as economical as propane gas-fueled lift trucks. Propane gas is an extremely low emission fuel, so building ventilation does not have to be increased. Exhaust is virtually eliminated as long as the propane gas engine is properly adjusted. This is a big advantage when the lift trucks are utilized in confined work areas. Another benefit of using clean-burning propane gas is that maintenance costs are reduced and engine life is increased by two-to-three times over a gasoline-fueled engine.
Propane is also a very safe fuel. Tanks, fuel lines and carburetion components are made to strict specifications. Built-in safety systems provide automatic shut-off of fuel in the case of an accident. In addition, propane burns completely, so there is no evaporation or spillage loss of fuel into the atmosphere.
