Electric forklift models make up almost sixty percent of the entire material handling market. Powering these models are really heavy lead-acid batteries. Because of their massive weight, these batteries naturally give a lot of the counterweight.
Counterbalanced trucks are classified by the ITA as Class 1 lift trucks. Class 1 also includes other electric trucks made for general applications and stand-up counterbalanced trucks. Though the initial expense of an electric lift truck is more than IC forklifts, electric models are less expensive to use in the long run. This is because of their lower fuel and maintenance costs.
Most electric lift truck models which have been manufactured and designed within North America, are used mostly in indoor environments. Electric lift trucks have usually been limited to indoor applications with surfaces that are smooth and clean. With the introduction of some new Class 1 items, it is becoming increasingly possible to utilize electric rider models in certain outdoor operations.
Because of the fact that electric lift truck units provide no harmful emissions, they are usually chosen for indoor applications when compared to Internal Combustion forklifts. Electric units can complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are very quiet when in use. Electric model batteries weigh around 3,000 pounds. The job of recharging, reloading and removing the batteries could be burdensome and time consuming. This situation normally occurs at a battery charging station or an area that is specially designed for handling batteries. There are developing fast charging technologies that will be available on the market and these new systems are changing the process of charging batteries.
The Right Fit
Using the correct size of lift truck to complete the particular operation is vital to any business operation. The application itself should always dictate which product is chosen.
Customers are always looking for methods to reduce their operating costs and find more efficient work practices that help lower these expenses, while also improving their production. Utilizing the wrong size of lift truck can greatly slow things down and have a huge effect on the bottom line and profitability of a company, while negatively affecting the production on the jobsite.
If you are uncertain about what specific kind of forklift you require, a reputable dealer will be able to ask you the correct questions that will allow you to make a correct selection. Many dealerships offer rentals of their equipment also and this is a really good way to try before you commit to such a big purchase. It is also a good way to try various models out to see which ones you and your operators are the most comfortable with and which ones bring you the best production.