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Calor, the UK’s leading supplier of LPG –
liquefied petroleum gas – is a major player in
the materials handling sector. The company sponsors
the Designer of the Year category in the FLTA Awards
and points to the consistent growth of the fuel over
recent years. The company’s forklift trucks specialist,
Jason Whitwell, explains the relentless advance of the
cleaner burning fuel by its acknowledged advantages
over both diesel and electricity.
‘LPG is now well established in the sector, with
all the major manufacturers offering the fuel in their
product ranges,’ he says. ‘Calor has worked
alongside all the leading forklift trucks manufacturers
to ensure a smooth installation and it’s clear
that, whatever the application, LPG is the fuel of choice.’
LPG delivers a number of benefits compared to diesel,
principally based on reduced emissions, which, when
a three way catalytic converter is fitted, allows forklift
trucks operation in sensitive areas. For example, LPG
achieves a 95 per cent reduction in NOx emissions compared
to diesel. As a high octane, cleaner burning fuel, LPG’s
use also results in less carbon build up on engines,
less oil contamination and less overall engine wear.
‘An LPG truck fitted with a three-way catalytic
converter and closed loop engine control system monitors
and adjusts its fuel to air mixture 1,000 times a second
to give an optimum burn,’ says Jason Whitwell.
‘The latest technical developments are enabling
LPG forklift trucks to be used in areas that were previously
the domain of electric forklift trucks, such as food
manufacturing,’ he adds. ‘Naturally an IC
engine won’t be used in a food preparation environment,
but there’s no reason why a properly fitted LPG
forklift truck shouldn’t operate in a primary
packaged food area.’
In contrast to electric forklift trucks, which typically
take around eight hours to recharge, LPG forklift trucks
can be quickly refuelled from a bulk tank, or by changing
a gas cylinder, allowing a true 24/7 operation. As well
as saving time on refuelling, running a fleet on LPG
can save valuable storage space with no need for a separate
area devoted to battery charging.
But aside from its fuel rivals, Calor LPG stands out
on its own, with a number of inherent advantages. LPG
trucks provide true flexibility, being suitable for
both indoor and outdoor use. Bulk tank installation
provides even greater fuel cost savings and, carried
out in consultation with a recognised supplier such
as Calor, the process is painless. Calor offers a team
of dedicated technical experts who assess a client’s
needs, recommend a solution and where required, design
a tailored system as well as giving guidance on relevant
HSE regulations.
For Calor, safety is paramount, with LPG refuelling
training provided at all new and existing sites on request.
Servicing and maintenance of LPG bulk tanks remain the
responsibility of the fuel supplier and Calor performs
a detailed tank inspection at every fuel delivery. The
company operates the UK’s largest LPG delivery
network and uses predictive deliveries and new telemetry
systems to ensure that customers should never run out
of gas.
A key aim for Calor is to position the company as the
fuel partner of choice in the materials handling sector.
‘It goes far beyond merely the supply of gas or
the fuel price,’ adds Jason Whitwell. ‘Discussions
with an LPG expert with the right technical capability
can ensure a hassle free conversion as well as providing
a package of ongoing technical support, safety assurance
and training, he adds.
‘It’s small wonder that the march of LPG
in the forklift truck market is set to continue.’
ENDS
Issued on behalf of Calor by Connect PR, Chubb Buildings, Fryer Street, Wolverhampton WV1 1HT. Telephone 01902 714957. For further information please contact Vicci Mace: vicci@connect-group.com
 Click here to download this press release in Word format
Ref: CG258
Released: January 2006
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