Approximately 60 percent of the lift truck market is made up from electric models. These models derive their power from really heavy lead-acid batteries. Because of their massive weight, these batteries naturally offer a lot of the counterweight.
The counterbalanced version of lift trucks have been classed as Class 1 lift trucks by the ITA. Class 1 normally refers to electric forklifts designed for general applications and stand-up counterbalanced forklifts. Though the initial expense of an electric forklift is more than IC lift trucks, electric models are cheaper to operate in the long run. This is due to their lesser maintenance and fuel costs.
The majority of electric forklift models which have been manufactured and engineered in North America, are used mainly in indoor environments. Electric lift trucks have usually been limited to indoor use with smooth and clean surfaces. With the launch of several new Class 1 items, it is becoming increasingly possible to use electric rider models in certain outdoor applications.
When compared to Internal Combustion forklifts, the electric trucks are typically selected for indoor use because of the fact they provide no harmful emissions, could often complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are extremely quiet to run. Electric unit batteries weigh roughly 3,000 pounds. The job of reloading, recharging and removing the batteries can be cumbersome and time consuming. This situation normally occurs at a battery charging post or an area which is specifically utilized for handling batteries. There are evolving fast charging technologies that will be available on the market and these new systems are changing the process of charging batteries.
The Right Fit
A main factor connected with any type of lift truck is using the correct size of model to do the particular operation. The application itself should always dictate which product is selected.
Customers are striving to find lower operating expenses and more effective ways to lessen operating expenses, all the while increasing their overall production, specially since the economy becomes more complex and competitive. Using the wrong size of lift truck can really slow things down and have a big impact on the bottom line and profitability of a company, while negatively affecting the productivity on the jobsite.
A trustworthy forklift dealer will be able to help if you are unsure about the specific type of lift truck you require. They would ask you right questions that would allow you to make a proper selection. Numerous dealerships offer rentals of their equipment as well and this is a good way to try before you commit to such a huge purchase. It is also a good way to try different models out to see which ones bring you the best production and which ones you and your drivers are the most comfortable with.