Approximately sixty percent of the forklift market consist of electric units. These units derive their power from very heavy lead-acid batteries. Because of their immense weight, these batteries naturally supply much of the counterweight.
Counterbalanced trucks are classified by the ITA as Class 1 forklifts. Class 1 also includes other electric trucks designed for general use and stand-up counterbalanced trucks. Though the initial expenditure of an electric lift truck is more than IC lift trucks, electric models are cheaper to operate in the long run. This is due to their lesser fuel and maintenance costs.
Most electric forklift models which have been made and designed within North America, are utilized mainly in indoor settings. Electric forklifts have usually been limited to indoor applications with surfaces that are smooth and clean. With the launch of some new Class 1 items, it is becoming increasingly possible to utilize electric rider units in some outdoor applications.
Due to the fact that electric forklift units provide no harmful emissions, they are typically selected for indoor operations 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. The batteries for electric units weigh approximately 3,000 pounds. The job of reloading, recharging and removing the batteries could be burdensome and time consuming. This situation normally happens at a battery charging station or an area that is particularly designed 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 Right Fit
Using the correct size of forklift to complete the particular application is key to any business application. The application itself must always dictate what product is chosen.
Customers are always looking for ways to lessen their operating expenses and find more efficient work practices which help lower these costs, while also improving their production. Utilizing the wrong size of forklift could really slow things down and have a huge impact on the bottom line and productivity of a business, while negatively affecting the productivity on the jobsite.
If you are unsure about what particular type of lift truck you need, a respectable dealer will be able to ask you the correct questions that will allow you to make a correct selection. Lots of dealerships provide rentals of their equipment as well and this is a great way to try before you commit to such a large purchase. It is also a good way to try different units out to see which ones you and your drivers are the most comfortable with and which ones bring you the best production.