Forklift is one of the most commonly used vehicles in warehouses, factories, etc. Because the truck is quite frequently used to lift heavy loads, the cost of diesel forklifts is relatively high, especially fuel. When the situation of fuel prices is becoming more and more complicated, saving fuel is one of the great concerns of many customers. Below are 9 tips to save fuel when operating a diesel forklift.
It is necessary to master the principles of use to save fuel when operating diesel forklifts
1. Avoid sudden acceleration or braking:
Sudden acceleration and deceleration will require up to 40% more fuel consumption than usual. Besides, in a very short period of time, the engine cannot burn this fuel thoroughly, leading to an increase in emissions up to 5 times, causing environmental pollution. It can also lead to unintentional work accidents. Therefore, the driver needs to take advantage of the truck’s inertia, determine where to go and go first, and then slowly accelerate and decelerate.
2. Maintain standard tire pressure:
Under-inflated tires will cause the forklift to consume about 6% more fuel, which is due to the increased friction with the road surface. In addition, worn tires that exceed the specified standards can also consume about 0.4% of the fuel, although not too much, but in the long run, it can affect related accessories such as rims, butts, bearings … reduce operating efficiency, even cause danger to the operator, pedestrian and even the goods.
3. Operate the forklift at medium speed:
Forklift operation should be stable, avoid repeated braking, emergency braking, continuous acceleration and deceleration to reduce fuel consumption. It is recommended to let the forklift operate regularly at 80% throttle.
Speed control makes forklift operations safer and more efficient
4. Reduce braking:
Frequent and continuous use of the brake not only causes brake pads and wheels to wear quickly, but also increases fuel consumption. Therefore, customers should reduce the use of brakes, instead, you can slowly drift the forklift to the position you want to stop.
5. Maintain forklift periodic maintenance:
The engine is the most important part of a forklift truck, whether it works well or not is largely dependent on the engine. Customers need to pay attention to periodic maintenance of the truck, check whenever there are abnormal signs, and do not forget to check the hydraulic pump system. This step helps the forklift operate stably, save fuel and prolong its life.
6. Do not handling overloaded goods:
Each type of forklift has its own capacity which is specified by the manufacturer. Overloading should not cause the engine to work at its maximum capacity, which consumes more fuel, wears out tires faster, and poses a risk of unsafe for both operator and goods.
7. Obey the speed limit:
Similar to load regulations, forklifts also have speed limits. Driving at a speed exceeding the regulations also causes fuel consumption, reduces engine life, and is dangerous in the working environment.
It is necessary to comply with the regulations on load and speed when using forklifts
8. Use the right engine oil:
Diesel forklift trucks need to use the same suitable engine oil to work smoothly and save fuel. Normally an engine oil product with a viscosity of 50 will be used for diesel forklifts, but when the forklift is operating in harsh climatic conditions, high temperatures, this index can be up to 60.
9. Keep the air filter clean:
Some experts say keeping the air filter clean can save up to 10% on materials. Operators need to regularly check, clean, avoid dust, and consider replacing new filters when necessary.
Above are 9 tips to save fuel when operating a diesel forklift, most of the tips are quite simple and easy to perform. Customers who perform simultaneously and regularly could bring quite high efficiency. Hope that Yale Forklifts Vietnam has brought you useful information, please contact Hotline: 0896.461.728 so Yale Forklifts Vietnam can consult you with the suitable solution about forklift purchasing/rental service, maintenance service and forklift spare part!
