Electric lift truck models make up nearly sixty percent of the entire material handling market. Powering these models are extremely heavy lead-acid batteries. Because of their massive weight, these batteries naturally supply much of the counterweight.
The counterbalanced type of forklifts have been classed as Class 1 lift trucks by the ITA. Class 1 normally refers to electric forklifts made for general use and stand-up counterbalanced forklifts. Though the first cost of an electric lift truck is more than internal combustion lift trucks, electric units are less expensive to utilize in the long run. This is due to their lesser maintenance and fuel expenses.
Most electric forklift models that have been manufactured and engineered in North America, are utilized mostly in indoor environments. Electric lift trucks 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 more and more possible to use electric rider units in some outdoor applications.
When compared to Internal Combustion lift trucks, the electric trucks are normally chosen for indoor use because of the fact they produce no harmful emissions, can usually complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are very quiet to run. The batteries for electric units weigh approximately 3,000 pounds. The job of recharging, reloading and removing the batteries could be burdensome and time consuming. This situation usually occurs at a battery charging station or an area which is specially utilized for handling batteries. There are developing fast charging technologies that would be available on the market and these new systems are changing the process of charging batteries.
The Right Fit
Using the correct size of forklift to complete the particular application is key to any business application. The application itself should always dictate what product is selected.
Clients are striving to find lower operating costs and more effective methods to reduce operating expenses, all the while increasing their overall productivity, particularly because the economy becomes more competitive and complex. Utilizing the wrong size of forklift could greatly slow things down and have a huge effect on the bottom line and success of a business, while negatively affecting the production on the jobsite.
A good lift truck dealer will be able to assist if you are unsure about the specific kind of forklift you need. They will ask you correct questions which would allow you to make a proper choice. Numerous dealerships provide rentals of their machines too and this is a good way to try before you commit to such a big purchase. It is also a good way to try different models out to see which ones you and your operators are the most comfortable with and which ones bring you the best productivity.