What is Lpg Forklift and Why Do We Use Them?

First, what is a LPG forklift? It's a forklifts powered by liquid propane gas (LPG). This power source offers unique advantages. LPG forklifts comprise a huge portion of the material handling market and are found across most industries. However, the performance and convenience of these models come with some disadvantages too.

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Advantages of LPG Forklifts

1. Lower Initial Investment

In general, LPG forklifts are the most affordable models for companies to purchase new. This low price can allow companies to purchase more equipment for their fleet or add optional equipment to improve forklift performance. 

2. Convenient Refueling

LPG-powered forklifts are very easy to refuel. Operators simply detach the propane tank, replace it with a full one, and secure the new tank properly. Most forklift LPG tanks can be changed safely in a matter of minutes. This convenience helps keep forklifts running and workers productive for a large percentage of their shift.  

3. Broad Industry Applications

Forklifts running on LPG work in many different industries. These versatile machines can be used outdoors or in properly ventilated indoor applications. With common lifting capacities available up to and above 15,000 pounds, LPG forklifts can provide ample power for most businesses. 

4. Wide Availability

The easy availability of LPG forklift models make them convenient to maintain and replace. Both OEM and will-fit parts can be easy to source for the most popular models. When your equipment passes its economically viable lifespan, it can be simple to determine what model to replace it with. 

Disadvantages of LPG Forklifts

While they offer dependable performance and great value, LPG forklifts come with some trade-offs. These include:

1. Unpredictable Fuel Costs

Fossil fuel costs are expected to only increase over time. Due to this, the total operating cost for an LPG forklift fleet can be difficult to predict each year. 

2. Operator Training

LPG forklifts may require additional operator training to ensure proper use. Features like the inching pedal can help fine-tune performance when used correctly. However, their misuse can cause forklifts to overheat and potentially damage the engine. Similarly, repeated motions for replacing LPG tanks can injure operators if not performed safely and correctly. Proper operator training is key to success.

3. Less Maneuverable

While powerful, LPG forklifts are not as maneuverable as electric forklifts. Their larger turning radiuses and greater stopping distance can sometimes be a hurdle for indoor operations with narrow aisles.  

4. [Updated for ] You miss out on incentives from Washington's Clean Fuel Program

If you choose a gas-powered internal Combustion forklift or an LPG forklift, you're not choosing an electric forklift. Starting in Jan , Washington State's Clean Fuel Program offers incentives to electric vehicle owners. Essentially, you get paid to charge your electric forklifts. When you're shopping for a new electric forklift, be sure to request an incentive estimate to see how much you could earn. 

If you're in the market for a new or used LPG forklift, MidColumbia Material Handling is here to help. Our expert staff will help you determine what type of equipment is the best fit for your business. Contact us to see what we currently have in stock today.  

What are the benefits of using an LPG forklift truck?

This article was first published in and has been updated for to include important information for users of LPG forklifts on a current safety issue.

An LPG forklift is a versatile type of forklift truck commonly used for lifting work in industrial settings like warehouses, distribution centres and manufacturing facilities. LPG forklifts are powered by gas that's stored in a small cylinder found at the rear of the vehicle. Historically they have been favoured for benefits like their clean-burning nature, which makes them suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

In this blog, we'll be covering everything you need to know about LPG forklift trucks, including their main benefits and some crucial things to be aware of if you're currently considering the investment.

What does LPG stand for?

LPG stands for Liquefied Petroleum Gas, or Liquid Petroleum Gas. LPG primarily is made up of propane and butane, which are gases at room temperature but can be turned to liquid under pressure. LPG is commonly used to power forklifts and other industrial equipment.

What are the benefits of using an LPG forklift truck?

There are some key benefits to using an LPG forklift. Here's a look at just a few of the features that make LPG forklifts so useful.

1. Lowest upfront cost
   

   LPG forklifts don't require the additional purchase of a battery charger and are typically sold at a lower price than diesel vehicles, making them the cheapest of the three main types of forklifts available.

2. Suitable for indoor and outdoor work

   While diesel vehicles can only be used outside and electric forklifts are better suited to indoor work, LPG forklifts work well indoors and out, making them the most versatile choice. If your business only has the resources or revenue to support one vehicle, then LPG forklifts give you the greatest flexibility.

   Contact us to discuss your requirements of Lpg Forklift. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

3. Quieter than diesel

   Diesel vehicles are loud whilst in operation and can be distracting to work around, particularly in smaller workspaces. LPG forklifts offer similar functioning at less noise, making them a good compromise.

4. Gives off minimal fumes

   Diesel forklifts create lots of dirty fumes and can leave grease and grime on their surroundings. The fumes given off by LPG forklifts are much more minimal ' and cleaner ' so won't leave dirty marks on your products, warehouse or staff.

5. No need to spend time charging

   Electric trucks don't have a battery on-site. Instead, they're built into the forklift. The chargers are small so this not a huge issue in itself, however, they do need to spend time charging which can slow down operations. LPG forklifts simply require the LPG bottles changing, so you can get back to work faster.

What are the disadvantages of using an LPG forklift?

As of , the most pressing disadvantage of using an LPG forklift is a current, ongoing issue with LPG quality supplied by liquid gas companies. Low-quality LPG is resulting in a gas-air mix that's too rich, leaving some users finding their trucks are running rough or not starting at all. While LPG trucks offer some great benefits when performing optimally, we would advise against investing in one at the moment due to this ongoing quality issue. If you're looking for an alternative with similar benefits, we've found that lithium forklifts are a great option.

Find out more: Important information for LPG forklift users

Here are some more things to be aware of with LPG forklifts:

1. Fuel storage and handling

   LPG is flammable and requires special storage and handling. That means businesses need to adhere to safety regulations and protocols to keep staff safe. This might mean some additional training for the team to ensure proper safe use.

2. Maintenance costs

   While LPG trucks are cheaper to buy than diesel or electric vehicles, the fuel system can mean potentially higher maintenance and fuel costs. LPG gas costs can fluctuate, and the cost of maintaining propane cylinders and other equipment should also be kept in mind.

3. Fuel availability

   There are some logistics to think about when it comes to fuel availability for LPG forklifts. Refuelling requires delivery of propane cylinders which could lead to issues for businesses in remote areas ' any challenges with delivery could lead to potential downtime.

LPG forklift upkeep

Proper upkeep of any forklift is essential to ensure your operations run smoothly. There are regular maintenance tasks that need to be carried out to keep your truck in the best condition.

Here's a brief guide on guide to check and upkeep your forklift oil and oil levels.

How do I check my forklift oil?

To check the oil level in your LPG forklift:

• Locate the oil dipstick, which should be near the engine.
• Ensure the forklift is parked on a level surface.
• Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean and then reinsert.
• Remove the dipstick again and check the oil level. There should be minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick to indicate the correct levels.
• If the oil level is too low, add more to bring it to the right level.

Where should the oil be on a dipstick on a forklift?

The oil level on your LPG truck will differ depending on the manufacturer and model and will be specified in your forklift's manual or manufacturer guidelines. The principle is generally the same for all trucks, though ' the oil level should fall between a minimum and maximum mark on a dipstick.

Why not take a look at these articles to help with further forklift upkeep?

Forklift safety in changeable weather

How to safely clean forklift trucks

Top 5 forklift safety hazards and how to avoid them

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