Internal Combustion Lift Trucks
The Internal Combustion forklift belongs in the class IV and V forklift classification. They can be liquid propane, gas or diesel units. Mostly, the ICE or internal combustion engine units are used outdoors, because they produce some emissions and are able to operate in inclement climate. However, propane-powered units, could be used indoors provided that proper ventilation is utilized. It is best to know what kinds of settings you would be working in and what particular requirements you need to use the forklift for, to be able to ensure you select the best unit to suit all your needs.
ICE Benefits
Several of the advantages of ICE include a lower initial purchase price, compared to a similar capacity electric truck. This could range anywhere from 20% to 40% lower. The ICE units are easy and fast to refuel. This feature greatly lessens downtime since there is no need to recharge any batteries, like there is with electric units.
Most often, Internal Combustion Engine units provide higher performance capabilities compared to the similarly equipped electric truck. The heavier capacity is normally available in these models compared to electric trucks. Over recent years, there have been many changes regarding emissions technology and this has resulted in lesser total emission levels. ICE trucks remain popular with load sizes approximately 8000 lbs. and even a lot higher in particular operations such as ports, lumberyard settings and steel manufacturing facilities.
ICE Disadvantages
There are a few disadvantages to the ICE models. For instance, they utilize a higher cost-per-hour to operate as compared to electric trucks. This is mostly due to fuel and maintenance costs. Additionally, these units normally produce more noise compared to the electric models since they run louder. Internal Combustion Engine trucks also have fuel-storage requirements to take into account as well.