About 60 percent of the lift truck market is made up from electric models. These units derive their power from very heavy lead-acid batteries. Because of their massive weight, these batteries naturally give much of the counterweight.
The counterbalanced version of forklifts have been classed as Class 1 lift trucks by the ITA. Class 1 typically refers to electric forklifts designed for general use and stand-up counterbalanced forklifts. Though the first expense of an electric forklift is more than internal combustion forklifts, electric models are cheaper to operate eventually. This is because of their lesser maintenance and fuel costs.
Most electric lift truck models which have been manufactured and designed in North America, are used mostly in indoor settings. Electric forklifts have usually been limited to indoor applications with smooth and clean surfaces. With the launch of some new Class 1 items, it is becoming increasingly possible to use electric rider units in some outdoor operations.
Because of the fact that electric lift truck models produce no harmful emissions, they are typically chosen for indoor operations when compared to IC lift trucks. Electric models could complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are very quiet when in use. Electric unit batteries weigh about 3,000 pounds. The job of reloading, recharging and removing the batteries can be burdensome and time consuming. This situation normally happens at a battery charging zone or an area that is specially designed for handling batteries. There are developing fast charging technologies that would be available on the market and these new systems are changing the battery charging process.
The Proper Fit
Using the right size of forklift to complete the particular application is vital to any business operation. The application itself must always dictate what product is chosen.
Customers are striving to find lower operating expenses and more efficient ways to lower operating costs, all the while increasing their overall production, especially since the economy becomes more competitive and complex. Utilizing the wrong size of forklift can greatly slow things down and have a big impact on the bottom line and profitability of a business, while negatively affecting the production on the jobsite.
If you are uncertain about what specific kind of forklift you require, a respectable dealer would be able to ask you the right questions which would allow you to make a proper choice. Many dealerships offer rentals of their machinery also and this is a good way to try before you commit to such a big 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 productivity.