Roughly 60 percent of the lift truck market consist of electric units. These models derive their power from very heavy lead-acid batteries. Due to their massive weight, these batteries naturally supply much of the counterweight.
The counterbalanced kind of forklifts have been classed as Class 1 forklifts by the ITA. Class 1 typically refers to electric lift trucks designed for general applications and stand-up counterbalanced lift trucks. Although the first cost of an electric lift truck is more than internal combustion lift trucks, electric models are cheaper to use eventually. This is because of their lesser maintenance and fuel expenses.
Most of the electric rider trucks made and designed within North America are made for moving material within 4 walls. Electric forklifts have traditionally been limited to indoor applications with smooth and clean surfaces. With the launch of several new Class 1 items, it is becoming more and more possible to use electric rider models in certain outdoor applications.
Due to the fact that electric lift truck units produce no harmful emissions, they are normally chosen for indoor operations when compared to Internal Combustion lift trucks. Electric models can complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are really quiet when in use. Electric unit batteries weigh roughly 3,000 pounds. The job of recharging, reloading and removing the batteries can be time consuming and cumbersome. This situation often happens at a battery charging zone or an area that is specifically designed 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 correct size of unit to complete the specific application. The application itself should always dictate what product is selected.
Clients are always looking for methods to lower their operating expenses and find more efficient work practices that help lower these expenses, while also improving their production. Utilizing the wrong size of forklift could really slow things down and have a huge effect on the bottom line and productivity of a business, while negatively affecting the production on the jobsite.
If you are unsure about what particular kind of forklift you require, a respectable dealer will be able to ask you the right questions which will allow you to make a correct selection. Numerous dealerships offer 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 nice way to try different units out to see which ones you and your operators are the most comfortable with and which ones bring you the best productivity.