Approximately 60 percent of the lift truck market is made up from electric units. These models derive their power from really heavy lead-acid batteries. Because of 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 made for general applications and stand-up counterbalanced trucks. Although the initial expense of an electric lift truck is more than internal combustion lift trucks, electric units are less expensive to use eventually. This is due to their lesser maintenance and fuel costs.
Most electric forklift models which have been manufactured and designed within North America, are utilized 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 use electric rider units in certain outdoor applications.
When compared to IC forklifts, the electric trucks are usually chosen for indoor applications due to the fact they provide no harmful emissions, could often complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are extremely quiet to run. Electric unit batteries weigh roughly 3,000 pounds. The job of recharging, reloading and removing the batteries can be cumbersome and time consuming. This situation usually happens at a battery charging post or an area that is specially used for handling batteries. There are evolving fast charging technologies becoming available on the market and these new systems are changing the battery charging method.
The Proper Fit
A main factor associated with any kind of forklift is utilizing the correct size of unit to do the particular operation. The application itself must always dictate what product is chosen.
Clients are always looking for means to lessen their operating expenses and find more effective work practices that help reduce these costs, while also improving their productivity. Using the wrong size of lift truck can greatly slow things down and have a big effect on the bottom line and profitability of a business, while negatively affecting the production on the jobsite.
If you are uncertain about what particular type of forklift you require, a reliable dealer would be able to ask you the correct questions that would enable you to make a proper choice. Many dealerships offer rentals of their equipment as well and this is a good way to try before you commit to such a huge purchase. It is also a nice 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.