Around sixty percent of the lift truck market consist of electric units. These units derive their power from extremely heavy lead-acid batteries. Due to their immense weight, these batteries naturally provide much of the counterweight.
The counterbalanced type of lift trucks have been classed as Class 1 forklifts by the ITA. Class 1 typically refers to electric forklifts made for general applications and stand-up counterbalanced forklifts. Though the initial cost of an electric lift truck is more than IC lift trucks, electric models are cheaper to use eventually. This is because of their lower fuel and maintenance costs.
The majority of the electric rider trucks manufactured and designed in North America are made for transporting material within 4 walls. Electric forklifts have traditionally been limited to indoor applications with clean and smooth surfaces. With the launch of some new Class 1 items, it is becoming more and more possible to utilize electric rider models in certain outdoor operations.
When compared to IC forklifts, the electric trucks are normally chosen for indoor use because of the fact they provide no harmful emissions, can usually complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are really quiet to run. The batteries for electric models weigh roughly 3,000 pounds. The job of recharging, reloading and removing the batteries can be time consuming and burdensome. This situation normally happens at a battery charging zone or an area that is specifically designed for handling batteries. There are evolving fast charging technologies that would be available on the market and these new systems are changing the battery charging method.
The Proper Fit
Utilizing the correct size of lift truck to do the particular operation is key to any business operation. The application itself must always dictate what product is selected.
Customers are always looking for methods to reduce their operating costs and find more effective work practices that help lower these expenses, while also improving their production. Utilizing the wrong size of lift truck could greatly slow things down and have a huge impact on the bottom line and productivity of a business, while negatively affecting the production on the jobsite.
A good forklift dealer will be able to assist if you are uncertain about the specific type of lift truck you require. They will ask you right questions which will enable you to make a proper choice. Numerous dealerships provide rentals of their machines as well and this is a good 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 bring you the best production and which ones you and your drivers are the most comfortable with.