Around sixty percent of the lift truck market consist of electric models. These models derive their power from very heavy lead-acid batteries. Due to their immense weight, these batteries naturally offer much of the counterweight.
Counterbalanced trucks are classified by the ITA as Class 1 lift trucks. Class 1 also includes other electric trucks made for general use and stand-up counterbalanced trucks. Though the first expense of an electric lift truck is more than IC forklifts, electric models are cheaper to utilize eventually. This is because of their lower fuel and maintenance costs.
The majority of electric forklift models that have been manufactured and designed within North America, are used mainly in indoor environments. Electric lift trucks have usually been limited to indoor use with surfaces that are smooth and clean. With the introduction of some new Class 1 items, it is becoming increasingly possible to utilize electric rider units in some outdoor operations.
When compared to IC lift trucks, the electric trucks are usually selected for indoor use because of the fact they produce no harmful emissions, could normally complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are very quiet to operate. Electric model batteries weigh roughly 3,000 pounds. The job of recharging, reloading and removing the batteries could be burdensome and time consuming. This situation normally occurs at a battery charging zone or an area which is specially designed for handling batteries. There are evolving fast charging technologies that would 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 forklift is utilizing the correct size of model to complete the particular application. The application itself should always dictate which product is chosen.
Customers are always looking for ways to lessen their operating expenses and find more efficient work practices which help lower these expenses, while also improving their production. Utilizing the wrong size of lift truck can greatly slow things down and have a big effect on the bottom line and profitability of a business, while negatively affecting the production on the jobsite.
If you are unsure about what particular kind of forklift you need, a reputable dealer will be able to ask you the correct questions that would enable you to make a correct choice. Numerous dealerships provide rentals of their machinery also and this is a good way to try before you commit to such a huge purchase. It is also a good way to try various models out to see which ones bring you the best production and which ones you and your drivers are the most comfortable with.