,“How much fuel does a forklift consume per hour?” is a frequently asked question when customers rent or buy a diesel-powered forklift.
The fuel consumption rate is calculated by the amount of diesel used (unit: litre) continuously by the forklift in 1 hour, denoted by l/h.
Diesel-powered forklift – a popular choice
Nowadays, the diesel-powered forklift is a popular choice in construction, industry and agriculture.
In Vietnam, the diesel powered forklift is proven to be well-suited with climate conditions and current companies’ demands.
Typically, the lifting/lowering and handling of material are mostly performed outdoors and on complicated terrains. The diesel powered forklift will be an optimal solution as it offers excellent features, including:
- Powerful engine
- Long working hours without having to compromise productivity
- Maneuverable wheel tire system
- Easy repair and maintenance
- Flexible and high efficiency
How much diesel does a forklift consume per hour?
When using a diesel-powered forklift; Operating cost is the first thing that comes to customer’s concern. This operating cost includes:
- Maintenance cost
- Fuel fee
- Labour cost
In which, fuel fee is the most concerning expense as it is a frequently incurred amount.
However, there is no exact answer for the fuel consumption rate of diesel-powered forklift as it varies depending on many factors namely:
- Max. lifting capacity
- Engine type
- Actual working conditions
- Machine working hours
- Operator’s skill
This fuel consumption rate is sometimes shown in product’s specifications of some manufacturers. However, it is just a relative number which is based on standard conditions.
How to calculate fuel consumption rate of diesel-powered forklift?
Let’s us take an example:
The forklift is mounted with a 35,4 kW engine; Performing lifting of 3000 kg package in a 40m route.
- A is the loading location, B is the unloading location
- At A, the forklift works at the lifting height of 3m
- The travelling speed from A to B is 15 km/h
- Unloading at B and return to A with no-load
A basic lifting cycle like this will consume about 2,4 litres of diesel per hour for a professional operator.
Does a diesel-powered forklift chew up fuel ?
Fuel consumption rates per hour for reference:
- 1ton diesel forklift: 4L ~ 3.3L
- 1,5ton diesel forklift: 2.5L ~ 3.6L
- 2ton diesel forklift: 2.6L ~ 3.6L
- 2,5ton diesel forklift 2.7L ~ 3.8L
- 3ton diesel forklift: 2.9L ~ 3.9L
Remarks: The fuel consumption rate of diesel-powered forklift may vary from 10-30% compared with the calculation depending on actual working conditions.
Some tips to keep the fuel consumption down for a diesel forklift
To save cost when using a diesel forklifts, here are some tips:
- Select a professional operator
How long a piece of property lasts depends on how one cares for it. Therefore, the operator plays an important role in the life of a forklift. A professional operator masters usage; maintenance and operation of the equipment . This will help the business save the cost.
- Working frequency
Operating forklift in its correct function will help you save the cost and extend the equipment life.
Working overload also chews up fuel consumption and leads to quick deterioration.
- On-time maintenance
It is necessary to carry out maintenance on time as advised by the manufacturer. You should prepare periodic maintenance plans to ensure the machine remains in its best conditions.
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