Approximately sixty percent of the lift truck market consist of electric models. These units derive their power from very heavy lead-acid batteries. Because of their immense weight, these batteries naturally provide a lot of the counterweight.
The counterbalanced type of forklifts have been classed as Class 1 lift trucks by the ITA. Class 1 usually refers to electric forklifts made for general use and stand-up counterbalanced lift trucks. Although the initial expense of an electric lift truck is more than IC forklifts, electric models are less expensive to use eventually. This is because of their lesser maintenance and fuel costs.
The majority of the electric rider trucks made and designed in North America are made for transporting material within 4 walls. Electric forklifts have usually been limited to indoor applications with smooth and clean surfaces. With the introduction of several new Class 1 items, it is becoming more and more possible to use electric rider models in some outdoor applications.
When compared to IC lift trucks, the electric trucks are usually chosen for indoor applications due to the fact they produce no harmful emissions, could often complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are extremely quiet to run. Electric model batteries weigh around 3,000 pounds. The job of recharging, reloading and removing the batteries can be cumbersome and time consuming. This situation normally happens at a battery charging station or an area which is specifically designed for handling batteries. There are evolving fast charging technologies becoming available on the market and these new systems are changing the process of charging batteries.
The Proper Fit
Utilizing the correct size of lift truck to do the specific operation is vital to any business application. The application itself must always dictate which product is selected.
Customers are striving to find lessen operating costs and more efficient means to lower operating expenses, all the while increasing their overall productivity, specially because the economy becomes more complex and competitive. Using the wrong size of lift truck could really 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 trustworthy forklift dealer will be able to assist if you are unsure about the specific kind of forklift you require. They will ask you right questions which will allow you to make a correct selection. Numerous dealerships provide rentals of their machinery also and this is a 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 drivers are the most comfortable with and which ones bring you the best productivity.