About sixty percent of the forklift market is made up from electric units. These models derive their power from really heavy lead-acid batteries. Because of their immense weight, these batteries naturally provide much of the counterweight.
Counterbalanced trucks are classified by the ITA as Class 1 forklifts. Class 1 also includes other electric trucks designed for general use and stand-up counterbalanced trucks. Even though the first cost of an electric forklift is more than internal combustion lift trucks, electric models are less expensive to use eventually. This is because of their lower fuel and maintenance costs.
Most electric lift truck units which have been manufactured and designed within North America, are used mostly in indoor environments. Electric lift trucks have traditionally been limited to indoor use with surfaces that are smooth and clean. With the launch of some new Class 1 items, it is becoming more and more possible to utilize electric rider models in some outdoor applications.
When compared to Internal Combustion lift trucks, the electric trucks are typically selected for indoor use because of the fact they produce no harmful emissions, could often complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are extremely quiet to operate. Electric unit batteries weigh around 3,000 pounds. The job of reloading, recharging and removing the batteries can be time consuming and cumbersome. This situation often happens at a battery charging zone or an area which is particularly designed for handling batteries. There are evolving fast charging technologies becoming available on the market and these new systems are changing the method of charging batteries.
The Proper Fit
Using the right size of forklift to complete the specific application is vital to any business operation. The application itself must always dictate which product is selected.
Customers are striving to find reduce operating expenses and more efficient ways to lessen operating expenses, all the while increasing their overall production, especially because the economy becomes more competitive and complex. Using the wrong size of forklift could greatly slow things down and have a huge impact on the bottom line and success of a business, while negatively affecting the production on the jobsite.
A trustworthy lift truck dealer will be able to assist if you are unsure about the particular kind of forklift you require. They would ask you correct questions that would allow you to make a proper selection. Many dealerships offer rentals of their machinery too and this is a great way to try before you commit to such a huge purchase. It is also a good way to try various units out to see which ones you and your operators are the most comfortable with and which ones bring you the best productivity.