Approximately 60 percent of the forklift market is made up from electric models. These models derive their power from really heavy lead-acid batteries. Because of their massive weight, these batteries naturally offer much of the counterweight.
The counterbalanced version of forklifts have been classed as Class 1 forklifts by the ITA. Class 1 usually refers to electric forklifts made for general applications and stand-up counterbalanced forklifts. Although the first expenditure of an electric lift truck is more than IC forklifts, electric models are cheaper to use eventually. This is due to their lesser fuel and maintenance costs.
The majority of electric forklift models that have been manufactured and engineered in North America, are utilized mainly in indoor environments. Electric forklifts 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 increasingly possible to utilize electric rider models in certain outdoor operations.
Because of the fact that electric lift truck models provide no harmful emissions, they are normally selected for indoor applications when compared to Internal Combustion forklifts. Electric units could complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are really quiet when in use. The batteries for electric models weigh about 3,000 pounds. The job of recharging, reloading and removing the batteries can be time consuming and burdensome. This situation usually happens at a battery charging station or an area which is specially utilized for handling batteries. There are developing fast charging technologies that will be available on the market and these new systems are changing the battery charging method.
The Right Fit
A main factor associated with any type of lift truck is utilizing the correct size of unit to do the specific operation. The application itself must always dictate what product is selected.
Clients are always looking for means to reduce their operating costs and find more efficient work practices which help lessen these expenses, while also improving their productivity. Using the wrong size of lift truck could greatly slow things down and have a huge effect 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 kind of lift truck you need. They will ask you correct questions that will allow you to make a correct selection. Lots of dealerships provide rentals of their machines too and this is a good way to try before you commit to such a large purchase. It is also a good way to try various units out to see which ones bring you the best production and which ones you and your operators are the most comfortable with.