Electric lift truck models make up almost 60% of the entire material handling market. Powering these units are very heavy lead-acid batteries. Due to their massive weight, these batteries naturally offer a lot of the counterweight.
Counterbalanced trucks are classified by the ITA as Class 1 lift trucks. Class 1 also includes other electric trucks made for general applications and stand-up counterbalanced trucks. Although the initial expenditure of an electric lift truck is more than IC forklifts, electric models are cheaper to use in the long run. This is because of their lower fuel and maintenance expenses.
The majority of the electric rider trucks made and engineered within North America are made for transporting material within 4 walls. Electric forklifts have traditionally been limited to indoor use with smooth and clean surfaces. With the introduction of some new Class 1 items, it is becoming increasingly possible to utilize electric rider units in certain outdoor applications.
Due to the fact that electric lift truck models provide no harmful emissions, they are normally selected for indoor operations when compared to IC forklifts. Electric models can complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are really quiet when in use. Electric unit batteries weigh roughly 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 zone or an area which is specifically utilized for handling batteries. There are developing fast charging technologies that would be available on the market and these new systems are changing the battery charging method.
The Proper Fit
Using the right size of forklift to complete the specific operation is important to any business application. The application itself must always dictate which product is chosen.
Clients are striving to find lessen operating costs and more effective methods to reduce operating expenses, all the while increasing their overall productivity, especially as the economy becomes more complex and competitive. Using the wrong size of lift truck could really slow things down and have a big effect on the bottom line and success of a business, while negatively affecting the productivity on the jobsite.
A trustworthy lift truck dealer will be able to assist if you are unsure about the specific kind of forklift you require. They would ask you correct questions that will allow you to make a correct choice. A lot of dealerships offer rentals of their equipment too and this is a very great 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 you and your drivers are the most comfortable with and which ones bring you the best production.