Around sixty percent of the forklift market is made up from electric models. These models derive their power from very heavy lead-acid batteries. Because of their massive weight, these batteries naturally offer 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. Although the initial cost of an electric lift truck is more than internal combustion forklifts, electric models are cheaper to operate eventually. This is because of their lesser fuel and maintenance expenses.
Most of the electric rider trucks manufactured and designed within North America are made for transporting material within 4 walls. Electric forklifts have traditionally been limited to indoor use 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 models in certain outdoor applications.
When compared to Internal Combustion lift trucks, the electric trucks are usually selected for indoor use because of the fact they produce no harmful emissions, could often complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are really quiet to operate. Electric unit batteries weigh roughly 3,000 pounds. The job of recharging, reloading and removing the batteries could be time consuming and burdensome. This situation normally occurs at a battery charging zone or an area which is particularly 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 Right Fit
A main factor associated with any type of forklift is using the correct size of unit to do the specific operation. The application itself must always dictate which product is chosen.
Clients are always looking for methods to lessen their operating costs and find more efficient work practices which help lower these costs, while also improving their productivity. Utilizing 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 productivity on the jobsite.
A trustworthy lift truck dealer will be able to help if you are uncertain about the particular kind of lift truck you need. They will ask you correct questions which will enable you to make a correct selection. Numerous dealerships offer rentals of their machines also and this is a great way to try before you commit to such a large purchase. It is also a nice way to try various units out to see which ones bring you the best production and which ones you and your drivers are the most comfortable with.