Construction and Handling/Storage subsection

Elevating work lifts, lifting platforms and tractors

There is a good reason why propane is the primary source of power for forklifts in Canadian warehouses and distribution centers.

They have been used and trusted by companies of all sizes for decades for their versatility, low acquisition and operating costs, and operational efficiency.

Propane-powered forklifts and tractors offer multiple benefits for farms, constructors, distribution centers and grain terminals.

They can operate indoors and outdoors with no loss of performance and virtually no downtime, as the propane tank simply needs to be changed once it’s empty – an operation that takes only a few minutes. One tank can typically power a forklift for an 8-hour shift.

Clean propane engines can last up to twice as long as gasoline engines, which significantly reduces maintenance costs. Plus, unlike electric trucks, they run at 100% power without stopping and do not require long recharge cycles, which can take 6-8 hours.

Propane forklifts are less expensive to purchase and operate than electric forklifts. With an electric model, you must consider not only the purchase price, but also the cost of replacing the batteries or the cost of additional batteries to reduce downtime. The price of the batteries is a minimum of $500 and can reach up to $15,000 for high-power models. There is also the cost of installing charging stations that are wired to the building – a price of approximately $1,000 per station. In comparison, the price of forklift cylinders is about $250 for a steel cylinder. Most propane companies offer cylinder and storage cabinet rental programs for only a few dollars a month.
Propane forklifts offer better power-to-weight ratio, torque and responsiveness than electric forklifts. They can also carry heavier loads and lift heavier weights higher.

Propane forklifts offer many advantages:

  • Low acquisition and operating costs
  • No power loss, when compared to electric carts
  • Versatility, indoor and outdoor use
  • Economic energy source
  • Superior in many ways to gasoline, diesel or electric trucks
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Propane Safety

The health and safety of customers and employees are vital to the propane industry. Whether you are a first-time customer or a veteran in the propane workforce, this section offers a wide array of valuable information on the safe usage and storage of propane.

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It is illegal by Canadian law to refill cylinders without proper training!

Refillable one-pound cylinder kits manufactured to specification TC-39M, and aerosol containers are being sold in Canada.

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