About 60 percent of the forklift market consist of electric models. These models derive their power from really heavy lead-acid batteries. Due to their massive weight, these batteries naturally supply a lot of the counterweight.
Counterbalanced trucks are classified by the ITA as Class 1 forklifts. Class 1 also includes other electric trucks designed for general applications and stand-up counterbalanced trucks. Though the first cost 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 lesser maintenance and fuel expenses.
Most electric forklift units that have been manufactured and engineered within 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 normally chosen for indoor applications when compared to Internal Combustion forklifts. Electric units could complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are very quiet when in use. Electric model batteries weigh approximately 3,000 pounds. The job of recharging, reloading and removing the batteries could be cumbersome and time consuming. This situation usually happens at a battery charging station or an area which is particularly used for handling batteries. There are evolving fast charging technologies becoming available on the market and these new systems are changing the method of charging batteries.
The Right Fit
A main factor connected with any kind of forklift is using the right size of model to complete the particular application. The application itself must always dictate which product is chosen.
Customers are always looking for methods to lessen their operating expenses and find more effective work practices that help reduce these expenses, while also improving their production. Using the wrong size of lift truck can greatly slow things down and have a huge impact on the bottom line and profitability of a business, while negatively affecting the productivity on the jobsite.
If you are uncertain about what specific kind of lift truck you require, a reputable dealer will be able to ask you the right questions that would enable you to make a correct choice. Numerous dealerships offer rentals of their machinery also and this is a very good way to try before you commit to such a huge purchase. It is also a nice way to try different units out to see which ones bring you the best productivity and which ones you and your operators are the most comfortable with.