Electric lift truck units make up nearly 60% of the whole material handling market. Powering these units are very heavy lead-acid batteries. Because of their immense weight, these batteries naturally provide a lot of the counterweight.
The counterbalanced type of forklifts have been classed as Class 1 forklifts by the ITA. Class 1 normally refers to electric forklifts designed for general use and stand-up counterbalanced lift trucks. Even if the initial expenditure of an electric forklift is more than IC lift trucks, electric units are less expensive to operate eventually. This is due to their lesser fuel and maintenance costs.
Most of the electric rider trucks manufactured and designed in North America are made for transporting material within 4 walls. Electric forklifts have traditionally been limited to indoor applications with surfaces that are smooth and clean. With the introduction of several new Class 1 items, it is becoming increasingly possible to use electric rider units in certain outdoor operations.
Due to the fact that electric lift truck units provide no harmful emissions, they are normally chosen for indoor operations when compared to IC forklifts. Electric models could complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are really quiet when in operation. Electric model batteries weigh roughly 3,000 pounds. The job of recharging, reloading and removing the batteries can be time consuming and burdensome. This situation usually happens at a battery charging station or an area that is particularly used 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
Using the right size of lift truck to do the particular application is key to any business operation. The application itself must always dictate what product is selected.
Clients are always looking for methods to reduce their operating expenses and find more effective work practices which help lessen these expenses, while also improving their production. Utilizing the wrong size of forklift could greatly slow things down and have a huge impact on the bottom line and profitability of a company, while negatively affecting the productivity on the jobsite.
A trustworthy lift truck dealer will be able to help if you are uncertain about the specific type of forklift you need. They will ask you right questions which will allow you to make a proper selection. Numerous dealerships offer rentals of their machines too and this is a really great way to try before you commit to such a large purchase. It is also a good way to try different units out to see which ones you and your drivers are the most comfortable with and which ones bring you the best production.