About sixty percent of the lift truck market is made up from electric units. These units derive their power from extremely heavy lead-acid batteries. Because of their massive weight, these batteries naturally supply much of the counterweight.
Counterbalanced trucks are classified by the ITA as Class 1 forklifts. Class 1 also includes other electric trucks designed for general applications and stand-up counterbalanced trucks. Even if the initial cost of an electric lift truck is more than IC lift trucks, electric models are cheaper to utilize eventually. This is due to their lower fuel and maintenance costs.
Most electric forklift units which have been made and engineered in North America, are utilized mostly in indoor settings. Electric lift trucks have usually been limited to indoor use with clean and smooth surfaces. With the launch of some new Class 1 items, it is becoming increasingly possible to use electric rider units in some outdoor applications.
When compared to IC lift trucks, the electric trucks are normally selected for indoor use due to the fact they provide no harmful emissions, can usually complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are really quiet to run. The batteries for electric models weigh roughly 3,000 pounds. The job of recharging, reloading and removing the batteries can be burdensome and time consuming. This situation often happens at a battery charging zone or an area which is specially designed for handling batteries. There are developing fast charging technologies becoming available on the market and these new systems are changing the battery charging method.
The Proper Fit
Using the right size of lift truck to do the specific operation is key to any business application. The application itself should always dictate which product is selected.
Clients are always looking for methods to lower their operating expenses and find more effective work practices that help lower these expenses, while also improving their productivity. Using the wrong size of forklift can really slow things down and have a huge impact on the bottom line and profitability of a business, while negatively affecting the productivity on the jobsite.
A trustworthy forklift dealer will be able to help if you are uncertain about the specific kind of forklift you need. They would ask you correct questions which would allow you to make a proper choice. Numerous dealerships offer rentals of their equipment as well and this is a very great way to try before you commit to such a large 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.