About 60 percent of the forklift market is made up by electric forklift models. These units are powered by heavy, large lead-acid batteries that that prevents the machinery from tipping over since it gives it the counterweight.
The ITA states that electric counterbalanced trucks are considered Class 1 lift trucks. The category of Class1 also includes stand-up counterbalanced forklifts along with other electric trucks which are designed for general use. Although the first investment when you purchase an electric forklift is more than an IC or internal combustion truck, electric trucks are a lot less costly to operate and run in the long-run. This is because of lesser fuel and maintenance expenses, compared to the internal combustion models.
Within North America, the majority of electric rider forklifts are made for transporting materials indoors. Electric rider trucks are used most frequently in retail spaces, and warehousing applications. The electric units are the best choice for inside use due to their ability to emit zero toxic emissions and make less noise.
What's more, electric lift truck can usually operate a complete 8 hour shift on one battery charge. Recharging, reloading and removing batteries, which generally weigh approximately 3000 lbs. can be time consuming and hard. This burdensome task normally needs a dedicated space for battery handling. Nonetheless, new fast charging technologies are being utilized to update this method and change the procedure to be able to accomplish it in a much quicker method.
This fast charging technology is considered to be better charging technology. It has changed electric unit forklifts 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 can cut charging time by as much as 50%!
IC or Internal Combustion Counterbalanced Forklifts
IC lift trucks depend on a variety of different kinds of fuels, such as LPG or liquid propane gas, diesel, CNG or compressed natural gas and gasoline. The bigger forklifts are commonly used outside. Usually, these models are diesel or gas powered and uses air-filled or pneumatic tires so as to make them appropriate for steep slopes and rough environment, as opposed to cushion tires. Cushion tires are better suited for indoor use and smooth services since they are made from solid rubber.
The most popular fuel choice for indoor trucks is LPG. There are over 600,000 propane-filled lift trucks these days that are operating within DCs and in warehouses. These units offer numerous benefits. Like for instance, propane-fueled lift trucks maintain 100 percent constant power during operation. In addition, these units offer faster ground speeds compared to other power sources.