Electric forklift units make up almost 60 percent of the lift truck market. These models derive their power from huge, heavy lead-acid batteries which give the machinery it's counterweight so as to avoid it from tipping over.
According to the ITA, electric counterbalanced lift trucks are considered Class 1 lift trucks. Class 1 is the category that includes all stand-up counterbalanced trucks and other electric forklifts. Though the initial investment when you purchase an electric forklift is more than an internal combustion or IC truck, electric trucks are much less costly to operate and run in the long-run. This is because of lower maintenance and fuel expenses, in comparison to the internal combustion units.
Within North America, most electric rider forklifts are designed for transporting materials indoors. Electric rider lift trucks are utilized most frequently in warehousing applications, and retail spaces. The electric models are the right choice for inside applications because they emit zero toxic emissions and make less noise.
What's more, electric forklift can normally operate a complete 8 hour shift on one battery charge. Recharging, reloading and removing batteries, that generally weigh about 3000 pounds can be time consuming and difficult. This burdensome job normally needs a dedicated space for handling the battery. However, new fast charging technologies are now used to change the procedure and update this process to be able to complete it in a much faster method.
Fast charging technologies are considered the best charging technologies. It has revolutionized electric unit lift trucks and the time it takes to charge their batteries. The experts of the material handling business, state that these new developments within the battery charging systems and battery technology could reduce charging time by as much as 50%!
IC Counterbalanced Forklifts
IC forklifts depend on a range of different kinds of fuels, including LPG or liquid propane gas, diesel, compressed natural gas or CNG and gasoline. The larger forklifts are normally used outside. Usually, these units are gas or diesel powered and utilizes air-filled or pneumatic tires so as to make them appropriate for rough environment and steep inclines, compared to cushion tires. Cushion tires are more suitable for smooth services and indoor use as they are made from solid rubber.
The most popular fuel choice for indoor trucks is LPG. There are over 600,000 propane-filled forklifts today which are operating within DCs and in warehouses. These models provide numerous benefits. Like for instance, propane-fueled forklifts maintain 100 percent consistent power during operation. Also, these units provide faster ground speeds compared to other power sources.