Electric lift truck models make up almost 60% of the entire material handling market. Powering these units are extremely heavy lead-acid batteries. Because of their massive weight, these batteries naturally offer much of the counterweight.
Counterbalanced trucks are classified by the ITA as Class 1 forklifts. Class 1 also includes other electric trucks made for general applications and stand-up counterbalanced trucks. Even if the first cost of an electric lift truck is more than internal combustion forklifts, electric models are cheaper to operate eventually. This is because of their lower maintenance and fuel expenses.
Most electric forklift units which have been manufactured and designed within North America, are utilized mostly in indoor settings. Electric lift trucks have traditionally been limited to indoor use with smooth and clean surfaces. With the introduction of several new Class 1 items, it is becoming more and more possible to utilize electric rider models in some outdoor applications.
Due to the fact that electric lift truck models provide no harmful emissions, they are typically selected for indoor applications when compared to Internal Combustion lift trucks. Electric models could complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are very quiet when in operation. The batteries for electric units weigh around 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 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 correct size of forklift to do the specific operation is important to any business operation. The application itself should always dictate what product is chosen.
Clients are always looking for means to lessen their operating expenses and find more effective work practices which help lower these costs, while also improving their productivity. Utilizing the wrong size of lift truck could really slow things down and have a huge effect on the bottom line and profitability of a business, while negatively affecting the production on the jobsite.
A good forklift dealer will be able to help if you are uncertain about the specific type of forklift you require. They would ask you correct questions that would allow you to make a proper selection. Many dealerships offer rentals of their machines 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 various models out to see which ones you and your drivers are the most comfortable with and which ones bring you the best productivity.