Electric forklift models make up nearly sixty percent of the entire material handling market. Powering these models are really heavy lead-acid batteries. Due to 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 designed for general applications and stand-up counterbalanced trucks. Although the initial cost of an electric lift truck is more than IC forklifts, electric models are cheaper to use eventually. This is because of their lower fuel and maintenance costs.
The majority of the electric rider trucks made and engineered in North America are made for transporting material within 4 walls. Electric lift trucks have traditionally been limited to indoor use with surfaces that are smooth and clean. With the launch of several new Class 1 items, it is becoming increasingly possible to utilize electric rider models in some outdoor applications.
When compared to Internal Combustion forklifts, the electric trucks are typically chosen for indoor use due to the fact they produce no harmful emissions, could usually complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are very quiet to operate. Electric model batteries weigh about 3,000 pounds. The job of reloading, recharging and removing the batteries could be time consuming and cumbersome. This situation often occurs at a battery charging zone or an area that is specially designed for handling batteries. There are evolving fast charging technologies becoming available on the market and these new systems are changing the battery charging process.
The Right Fit
A main factor connected with any kind of lift truck is using the correct size of model to complete the specific application. The application itself must always dictate which product is selected.
Clients are always looking for ways to lessen their operating costs and find more effective work practices that help lessen these expenses, while also improving their production. Utilizing the wrong size of lift truck could really slow things down and have a big impact on the bottom line and success of a business, while negatively affecting the production on the jobsite.
A good forklift dealer will be able to help if you are uncertain about the particular type of lift truck you need. They will ask you correct questions that would enable you to make a proper choice. Numerous dealerships offer rentals of their machines as well and this is a really great way to try before you commit to such a large purchase. It is also a nice way to try different models out to see which ones you and your drivers are the most comfortable with and which ones bring you the best productivity.