About 60 percent of the lift truck market is made up from electric units. These models derive their power from very heavy lead-acid batteries. Due to their immense weight, these batteries naturally give much of the counterweight.
The counterbalanced version of lift trucks have been classed as Class 1 forklifts by the ITA. Class 1 usually refers to electric lift trucks made for general use and stand-up counterbalanced forklifts. Though the initial cost of an electric lift truck is more than IC lift trucks, electric units are less expensive to operate eventually. This is because of their lower maintenance and fuel expenses.
Most electric forklift models that have been made and engineered in North America, are used mostly in indoor settings. Electric forklifts have traditionally been limited to indoor use with clean and smooth surfaces. With the introduction of some new Class 1 items, it is becoming more and more possible to utilize electric rider units in certain outdoor operations.
Because of the fact that electric lift truck models produce no harmful emissions, they are usually chosen for indoor applications when compared to Internal Combustion forklifts. Electric models can complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are really quiet when in use. Electric model batteries weigh around 3,000 pounds. The job of reloading, recharging and removing the batteries could be burdensome and time consuming. This situation usually happens at a battery charging zone or an area that is particularly used 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
A main factor connected with any type of lift truck is utilizing the right size of unit to complete the particular application. The application itself should always dictate what product is chosen.
Customers are striving to find lower operating costs and more efficient methods to reduce operating costs, all the while increasing their overall productivity, specially because the economy becomes more complex and competitive. Utilizing the wrong size of forklift could really slow things down and have a huge effect on the bottom line and profitability of a company, while negatively affecting the productivity on the jobsite.
A good forklift dealer would be able to assist if you are unsure about the particular kind of forklift you require. They will ask you correct questions that would allow you to make a proper selection. Numerous dealerships provide rentals of their equipment as well and this is a very good way to try before you commit to such a big purchase. It is also a good 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 productivity.