Electric lift truck models make up almost 60 percent of the forklift market. These units derive their power from big, heavy lead-acid batteries that which prevents the equipment from tipping over because it gives it the counterweight.
The ITA states that electric counterbalanced forklifts are considered Class 1 lift trucks. The category of Class1 also encompasses stand-up counterbalanced forklifts as well as other electric trucks which are designed for general use. Although the initial investment when you buy an electric lift truck is more than an internal combustion or IC truck, electric forklifts are less expensive to operate and run in the long-run. This is because of lower maintenance and fuel costs, than the IC units.
In North America, most electric rider lift trucks are designed for transporting materials indoors. Electric rider lift trucks are utilized most frequently in retail spaces, and warehousing applications. The electric units are the right choice for inside use as they emit zero toxic emissions and make less noise.
What's more, electric forklift could usually run a complete 8 hour shift on a single battery charge. Recharging, reloading and removing batteries, that generally weigh approximately 3000 lbs. could be time consuming and difficult. This cumbersome job often needs a dedicated space for handling the battery. Nevertheless, new fast charging technologies are now used to update this process and change the procedure to be able to complete it in a much quicker way.
Fast charging technologies are considered the best charging technologies. It has revolutionized electric model lift trucks and the time it takes to charge their batteries. The material handling industry professionals, state that these new developments within the battery charging systems and battery technology could lessen charging time by as much as 50%!
IC Counterbalanced Forklifts
The internal combustion powered forklifts will rely on types of fuels, such as LPG or liquid propane gas, diesel, CNG or compressed natural gas and gasoline. The larger forklifts are commonly utilized outdoors. Generally, these models are gas or diesel powered and uses air-filled or pneumatic tires so as to make them suitable for rough environment and steep inclines, as opposed to cushion tires. Cushion tires are better suited for indoor applications and smooth services as they are made from solid rubber.
The LPG model is the most common fuel option for indoor trucks. Nowadays, there are more than 600,000 propane-filled lift trucks working all around the globe. These units offer numerous benefits. Like for instance, propane-fueled lift trucks maintain 100 percent consistent power during operation. Moreover, these models offer faster ground speeds than other power sources.