IC Lift Trucks
The IC forklift belongs in the class IV and V forklift classification. They could be gas, diesel or liquid propane units. Primarily, the ICE or also referred to as internal combustion engine units are utilized outdoors, because they can function in severe weather conditions and emit some emissions. Propane-powered models, however, could be utilized indoors so long as proper ventilation is utilized. It is better to know what kinds of environments you will be operating in and what specific requirements you need to utilize the forklift for, in order to make sure that you pick the right model which would meet all of your requirements.
ICE Benefits
Several of the advantages of internal combustion engines consist of a lower initial purchase price, compared to a similar capacity electric truck. This can range anywhere from 20% to 40% less. The Internal Combustion Engine units are easy and fast to refuel. This feature really lessens downtime as there is no requirement to recharge any batteries, like there is with electric models.
To the similarly equipped electric truck, IC models do provide a higher performance capabilities with far heavier lift capacities than electric lift truck units. Over recent years, there have been numerous changes regarding emissions technology and this has resulted in lesser total levels of emission. Internal combustion engine trucks remain popular with load sizes roughly 8,000 pounds and even much higher in particular applications like lumberyard settings, steel manufacturing facilities and ports.
Internal Combustion Engine Drawbacks
The IC models do suffer from several drawbacks including a higher cost-per-hour to operate as compared to electric trucks, because of the excess needs for fuel. Additionally, these models normally create more noise than the electric models because they run louder. Internal Combustion Engine trucks also have fuel-storage requirements to take into account as well.