Roughly 60 percent of the forklift market consist of electric units. These models derive their power from very heavy lead-acid batteries. Due to their massive weight, these batteries naturally supply much of the counterweight.
The counterbalanced kind of lift trucks have been classed as Class 1 forklifts by the ITA. Class 1 typically refers to electric lift trucks designed for general use and stand-up counterbalanced lift trucks. Even though the first expenditure of an electric lift truck is more than internal combustion lift trucks, electric units are cheaper to use eventually. This is because of their lesser fuel and maintenance costs.
Most of the electric rider trucks manufactured and designed in North America are made for moving material within 4 walls. 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 more and more possible to use electric rider units in some outdoor applications.
Due to the fact that electric forklift units provide no harmful emissions, they are typically selected for indoor operations when compared to Internal Combustion forklifts. Electric models could complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are very quiet when in use. The batteries for electric units weigh about 3,000 pounds. The job of reloading, recharging and removing the batteries can be time consuming and burdensome. This situation usually occurs at a battery charging post or an area which is particularly designed for handling batteries. There are developing fast charging technologies that will be available on the market and these new systems are changing the method of charging batteries.
The Right Fit
A main factor connected with any kind of lift truck is using the right size of model to complete the particular application. The application itself must always dictate what product is chosen.
Clients are always looking for means to lower their operating expenses and find more efficient work practices which help lower these expenses, while also improving their productivity. Using the wrong size of forklift could greatly slow things down and have a huge effect 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 uncertain about the specific type of forklift you require. They will ask you right questions that will allow you to make a correct selection. A lot of dealerships offer rentals of their machines too and this is a very good way to try before you commit to such a big purchase. It is also a nice way to try various units out to see which ones bring you the best productivity and which ones you and your operators are the most comfortable with.