Approximately sixty percent of the lift truck market consist of electric models. These models derive their power from extremely heavy lead-acid batteries. Due to 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. Even if the initial expense of an electric forklift is more than IC forklifts, electric units are less expensive to operate in the long run. This is due to their lower fuel and maintenance expenses.
The majority of the electric rider trucks manufactured and engineered in North America are made for transporting material within 4 walls. Electric lift trucks have traditionally been limited to indoor applications with smooth and clean surfaces. With the introduction of some new Class 1 items, it is becoming increasingly possible to use electric rider models in certain outdoor applications.
When compared to IC lift trucks, the electric trucks are normally selected for indoor applications because of the fact they produce no harmful emissions, could usually complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are extremely quiet to run. The batteries for electric units weigh around 3,000 pounds. The job of reloading, recharging and removing the batteries can be cumbersome and time consuming. This situation usually happens at a battery charging zone or an area that is specifically used for handling batteries. There are evolving fast charging technologies that will be available on the market and these new systems are changing the battery charging method.
The Proper Fit
A main factor associated with any type of forklift is using the right size of unit to do the specific operation. The application itself must always dictate which product is selected.
Clients are striving to find reduce operating expenses and more efficient ways to lower operating costs, all the while increasing their overall productivity, particularly because the economy becomes more competitive and complex. Utilizing the wrong size of lift truck can greatly slow things down and have a huge impact on the bottom line and success of a company, while negatively affecting the productivity on the jobsite.
A good lift truck dealer will be able to assist if you are uncertain about the specific kind of forklift you require. They will ask you correct questions which would enable you to make a proper choice. Numerous dealerships provide rentals of their machinery also and this is a really good way to try before you commit to such a large purchase. It is also a good way to try various units out to see which ones you and your drivers are the most comfortable with and which ones bring you the best production.