Roughly 60 percent of the forklift market consist of electric units. These models derive their power from really heavy lead-acid batteries. Because of their massive 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 made for general applications and stand-up counterbalanced trucks. Though the initial cost of an electric forklift is more than IC lift trucks, electric units are cheaper to utilize eventually. This is due to their lower maintenance and fuel costs.
The majority of electric lift truck models which have been made and designed in North America, are used mainly in indoor environments. Electric lift trucks have traditionally been limited to indoor use with surfaces that are clean and smooth. With the introduction of several new Class 1 items, it is becoming more and more possible to use electric rider models in certain outdoor operations.
Due to the fact that electric forklift models produce no harmful emissions, they are normally chosen for indoor applications when compared to Internal Combustion forklifts. Electric models can complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are really quiet when in operation. The batteries for electric units weigh around 3,000 pounds. The job of recharging, reloading and removing the batteries can be cumbersome and time consuming. This situation often happens at a battery charging zone or an area which is specifically used for handling batteries. There are developing fast charging technologies that will be available on the market and these new systems are changing the battery charging process.
The Right Fit
A main factor associated with any type of lift truck is utilizing the correct size of unit to complete the specific operation. The application itself must always dictate which product is selected.
Clients are always looking for means to reduce their operating expenses and find more efficient work practices that help lower these expenses, while also improving their productivity. Using the wrong size of forklift can greatly slow things down and have a huge impact on the bottom line and success of a business, while negatively affecting the production on the jobsite.
A good lift truck dealer will be able to assist if you are unsure about the particular type of lift truck you require. They will ask you right questions that would enable you to make a proper choice. A lot of dealerships provide rentals of their machines too and this is a great way to try before you commit to such a big 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.