Electric lift truck models make up nearly 60 percent of the lift truck market. These models derive their power from heavy, large lead-acid batteries that which prevents the machine from tipping over as it gives it the counterweight.
The ITA states that electric counterbalanced lift trucks are considered Class 1 forklifts. The category of Class1 also includes stand-up counterbalanced lift trucks along with other electric trucks that are designed for general use. Though the initial investment when you buy an electric forklift is more than an internal combustion or IC forklift, electric lift trucks are a lot less expensive to run and operate in the long-run. This is because of lesser fuel and maintenance costs, in comparison to the IC models.
Within North America, most electric rider forklifts are made for transporting materials indoors. Electric rider lift trucks are utilized most frequently in retail spaces, and warehousing applications. The electric models are the best alternative for inside use due to their ability to emit zero toxic emissions and make less noise.
Additionally, electric forklift could normally work a complete 8 hour shift on a single battery charge. Recharging, reloading and removing batteries, that generally weigh approximately 3000 lbs. could be time consuming and difficult. This cumbersome job usually requires a dedicated area for battery handling. Nevertheless, new fast charging technologies are now used to change the procedure and update this method 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 charging time of their batteries. The material handling business experts, state that these new changes within the battery charging systems and battery technology could lessen charging time by up to 50%!
IC or Internal Combustion Counterbalanced Forklifts
The IC powered lift truck will depend on types of fuels, like LPG or liquid propane gas, diesel, compressed natural gas or CNG and gasoline. The bigger forklifts are commonly utilized outside. Usually, these units operate on gas or diesel and uses air-filled or pneumatic tires so as to make them appropriate for steep inclines and rough environment, compared to cushion tires. Cushion tires are better suited for smooth services and indoor use since they are made from solid rubber.
The LPG unit is the most popular fuel choice for indoor trucks. These days, there are over 600,000 propane-filled lift trucks working around the world. These models provide numerous benefits. Like for instance, propane-fueled lift trucks maintain 100% constant power during operation. In addition, these units provide faster ground speeds than other power sources.