Around sixty percent of the lift truck market consist of electric models. These units derive their power from really heavy lead-acid batteries. Due to their immense weight, these batteries naturally give a lot of the counterweight.
The counterbalanced type of forklifts have been classed as Class 1 lift trucks by the ITA. Class 1 usually refers to electric lift trucks designed for general applications and stand-up counterbalanced forklifts. Although the first cost of an electric forklift is more than internal combustion lift trucks, electric units are cheaper to use in the long run. This is due to their lower maintenance and fuel expenses.
The majority of the electric rider trucks manufactured and engineered in North America are made for moving material within 4 walls. Electric forklifts have traditionally been limited to indoor applications with smooth and clean surfaces. With the launch of several new Class 1 items, it is becoming increasingly possible to use electric rider models in some outdoor operations.
When compared to Internal Combustion lift trucks, the electric trucks are typically chosen for indoor applications due to the fact they produce no harmful emissions, could usually complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are very quiet to run. Electric model batteries weigh around 3,000 pounds. The job of recharging, reloading and removing the batteries could be cumbersome and time consuming. This situation usually happens at a battery charging station or an area which is specifically utilized for handling batteries. There are evolving fast charging technologies becoming available on the market and these new systems are changing the method of charging batteries.
The Proper Fit
Utilizing the correct size of lift truck to complete the particular application is vital to any business application. The application itself should always dictate what product is chosen.
Clients are always looking for means to lessen their operating costs and find more efficient work practices that help reduce these expenses, while also improving their productivity. Using the wrong size of lift truck can really slow things down and have a huge impact on the bottom line and productivity of a business, while negatively affecting the production on the jobsite.
A trustworthy forklift dealer will be able to help if you are uncertain about the particular kind of lift truck you require. They would ask you correct questions that would allow you to make a proper choice. A lot of dealerships offer rentals of their machinery as well and this is a very good way to try before you commit to such a huge purchase. It is also a good way to try various units out to see which ones bring you the best production and which ones you and your operators are the most comfortable with.