Internal Combustion Lift Trucks
IC lift trucks are members of classes IV and V. Usually, they are offered in diesel, liquid propane or gas units. Mainly, the ICE or internal combustion engine models are used outdoors, since they can function in inclement weather and produce some emissions. Propane-powered models, on the other hand, could be utilized indoors provided that proper ventilation is utilized. It is best to determine what specific requirements you have to utilize the forklift for and what types of settings you will be working in, to be able to make certain that you select the best model that will suit all of your requirements.
ICE Benefits
Some of the advantages of internal combustion engines include a lower initial purchase price, compared to a similar capacity electric truck. This could vary anywhere from 20% to 40% lower. The ICE units are fast and easy to refuel. This feature greatly lessens downtime as there is no requirement to recharge any batteries, like there is with electric models.
To the similarly equipped electric truck, internal combustion units do provide a higher performance capabilities with far heavier lift capacities compared to electric lift truck models. Over recent years, there have been many advancements regarding emissions technology and this has resulted in lower total levels of emission. Internal combustion engine trucks remain popular with load sizes around 8,000 pounds and even much higher in particular operations like for example lumberyard settings, steel manufacturing facilities and ports.
Internal Combustion Engine Drawbacks
The Internal Combustion models do suffer from a few disadvantages including a higher cost-per-hour to operate as compared to electric trucks, because of the excess needs for fuel. Additionally, these models usually produce more noise compared to the electric models as they run louder. ICE trucks also have fuel-storage requirements to take into consideration too.