Electric forklift models make up nearly 60% of the whole material handling market. Powering these units are extremely heavy lead-acid batteries. Due to their massive weight, these batteries naturally give 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 cost of an electric forklift is more than IC lift trucks, electric models are less expensive to operate in the long run. This is because of their lesser maintenance and fuel expenses.
Most of the electric rider trucks manufactured and designed in North America are made for moving material within 4 walls. Electric lift trucks have usually been limited to indoor applications with clean and smooth surfaces. With the launch of some new Class 1 items, it is becoming more and more possible to use electric rider models in certain outdoor operations.
When compared to Internal Combustion lift trucks, the electric trucks are typically chosen for indoor applications because of 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. Electric unit batteries weigh roughly 3,000 pounds. The job of reloading, recharging and removing the batteries can be time consuming and burdensome. This situation usually occurs at a battery charging post or an area which is specifically used for handling batteries. There are developing 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 kind of forklift is utilizing the correct size of model to do the specific application. The application itself must always dictate what product is selected.
Clients are always looking for methods to lessen their operating costs and find more effective work practices that help lower these expenses, while also improving their productivity. Using the wrong size of forklift could greatly 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 good lift truck dealer would be able to assist if you are unsure about the specific kind of lift truck you require. They will ask you correct questions that would allow you to make a proper choice. Numerous dealerships offer rentals of their machines too and this is a really good way to try before you commit to such a large 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 production.