Electric lift truck models make up almost 60% of the whole material handling market. Powering these units are really heavy lead-acid batteries. Because of their massive weight, these batteries naturally provide a lot of the counterweight.
Counterbalanced trucks are classified by the ITA as Class 1 lift trucks. Class 1 also includes other electric trucks made for general applications and stand-up counterbalanced trucks. Even though the first expenditure of an electric lift truck is more than IC forklifts, electric units are cheaper to use eventually. This is because of their lower maintenance and fuel costs.
Most electric lift truck models that have been made and engineered in North America, are used mostly in indoor environments. Electric lift trucks have usually been limited to indoor applications with surfaces that are clean and smooth. With the introduction of some new Class 1 items, it is becoming more and more possible to utilize electric rider units in some outdoor applications.
Because of the fact that electric forklift models produce no harmful emissions, they are usually chosen for indoor operations when compared to IC lift trucks. Electric models could complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are really quiet when in use. Electric model batteries weigh around 3,000 pounds. The job of recharging, reloading and removing the batteries can be time consuming and cumbersome. This situation often occurs at a battery charging post or an area which is specifically utilized for handling batteries. There are evolving fast charging technologies that will be available on the market and these new systems are changing the method of charging batteries.
The Proper Fit
Utilizing the correct size of forklift to complete the specific operation is key to any business operation. The application itself must always dictate what product is chosen.
Clients are always looking for ways to lessen their operating expenses and find more effective work practices which help reduce these expenses, while also improving their productivity. Utilizing the wrong size of lift truck could really slow things down and have a huge impact on the bottom line and profitability of a business, while negatively affecting the productivity on the jobsite.
A good lift truck dealer would be able to assist if you are uncertain about the specific type of lift truck you require. They will ask you right questions which would allow you to make a proper choice. Numerous dealerships offer rentals of their machinery as well and this is a very great way to try before you commit to such a big purchase. It is also a good way to try various units out to see which ones bring you the best productivity and which ones you and your drivers are the most comfortable with.