Diesel Forklifts Vs. Electric Forklifts
Forklifts are powered one of two ways, either by electric motor or by internal combustion (IC) motor. Electric forklifts are suitable for use indoors and cost less to utilize. IC machines are best for use outdoors and are quicker to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
For indoor use, where the quality of air is a problem, the electric forklift is the suitable machinery you can utilize since it produces no exhaust. Electric forklifts are not noisy and clean. They are 20 - 40 percent more expensive to purchase than IC lifts, but the per-hour operating cost of electric models is much less. The disadvantage is that batteries require 16 hours to charge and cool down, so purchasing an extra set of batteries is suggested. Electric lifts are not limited to indoor application, but when utilized outdoors they must be used carefully.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts are for outdoor applications, and their carrying capacity is more than electric forklifts. If your fleet usually operates on one kind of fuel, it may be a good choice to purchase an IC unit that uses the same type of fuel. They can function on propane, diesel or gas. Diesel is the most economical. IC forklifts have the advantage of being easy to refuel and cheaper to operate; however, their operating cost on a per hour basis is higher. Nearly all IC models cannot be utilized indoors.
Other Kinds of Forklifts
Inside warehouses where there are tight spaces, the narrow aisle electric forklift is most suitable. They are constructed to pick up loads without having to face the lift towards the stacks. Rough terrain diesel forklifts have large tires for running on difficult surfaces.