Approximately 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 massive weight, these batteries naturally supply a lot of the counterweight.
Counterbalanced trucks are classified by the ITA as Class 1 lift trucks. Class 1 also includes other electric trucks designed for general use and stand-up counterbalanced trucks. Even though the initial cost of an electric lift truck is more than IC lift trucks, electric units are less expensive to use in the long run. This is due to their lesser maintenance and fuel expenses.
Most electric forklift units which have been manufactured and designed within North America, are used mainly in indoor environments. Electric forklifts have traditionally been limited to indoor applications with surfaces that are smooth and clean. With the launch of some new Class 1 items, it is becoming increasingly possible to utilize electric rider models in some outdoor applications.
When compared to Internal Combustion forklifts, the electric trucks are typically chosen for indoor use because of the fact they produce no harmful emissions, can normally complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are really quiet to operate. The batteries for electric units weigh roughly 3,000 pounds. The job of reloading, recharging and removing the batteries could be time consuming and cumbersome. This situation usually happens at a battery charging station or an area that is particularly used for handling batteries. There are developing fast charging technologies becoming available on the market and these new systems are changing the method of charging batteries.
The Right Fit
A main factor connected with any kind of lift truck is utilizing the right size of unit to do the specific operation. The application itself should always dictate what product is chosen.
Clients are always looking for means to lower their operating costs and find more effective work practices which help reduce these expenses, while also improving their production. Using the wrong size of forklift can greatly slow things down and have a big impact on the bottom line and productivity of a company, while negatively affecting the production on the jobsite.
A trustworthy lift truck dealer will be able to help if you are uncertain about the particular type of lift truck you need. They will ask you correct questions that will allow you to make a correct choice. Many dealerships provide rentals of their machines also and this is a great way to try before you commit to such a big purchase. It is also a nice way to try various units out to see which ones you and your operators are the most comfortable with and which ones bring you the best production.