Approximately sixty percent of the forklift market consist of electric units. These units derive their power from really heavy lead-acid batteries. Because of their massive weight, these batteries naturally give a lot of the counterweight.
The counterbalanced kind of lift trucks have been classed as Class 1 lift trucks by the ITA. Class 1 normally refers to electric lift trucks made for general use and stand-up counterbalanced lift trucks. Though the initial expenditure of an electric forklift is more than IC lift trucks, electric units are less expensive to utilize in the long run. This is because of their lower fuel and maintenance expenses.
Most of the electric rider trucks manufactured and engineered within North America are made for transporting material within 4 walls. Electric forklifts have traditionally been limited to indoor use with surfaces that are clean and smooth. With the introduction 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 IC lift trucks, the electric trucks are usually selected 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 really quiet to run. The batteries for electric models weigh around 3,000 pounds. The job of reloading, recharging and removing the batteries can be cumbersome and time consuming. This situation normally occurs at a battery charging post or an area which is particularly designed for handling batteries. There are evolving fast charging technologies becoming available on the market and these new systems are changing the battery charging method.
The Right Fit
Utilizing the correct size of forklift to do the particular operation is vital to any business operation. The application itself should always dictate which product is chosen.
Clients are always looking for means to lower their operating costs and find more efficient work practices which help lessen these expenses, while also improving their productivity. Utilizing the wrong size of lift truck could greatly slow things down and have a big impact on the bottom line and success of a business, while negatively affecting the production on the jobsite.
A good forklift dealer would be able to assist if you are unsure about the specific kind of lift truck you need. They will ask you right questions which would enable you to make a correct selection. A lot of dealerships offer rentals of their machinery as well and this is a really great 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.