Electric forklift models make up nearly sixty percent of the whole material handling market. Powering these units are really heavy lead-acid batteries. Because of their massive weight, these batteries naturally provide much 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 use and stand-up counterbalanced trucks. Though the initial expenditure of an electric forklift is more than internal combustion lift trucks, electric models are cheaper to use in the long run. This is due to their lower maintenance and fuel costs.
Most electric forklift units which have been manufactured and engineered in North America, are utilized mostly in indoor environments. Electric forklifts have traditionally been limited to indoor use with smooth and clean surfaces. With the introduction of several new Class 1 items, it is becoming more and more possible to use electric rider units in certain outdoor applications.
Because of the fact that electric lift truck units produce no harmful emissions, they are usually chosen for indoor operations when compared to Internal Combustion lift trucks. Electric models could complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are very quiet when in operation. Electric unit batteries weigh about 3,000 pounds. The job of reloading, recharging and removing the batteries could be time consuming and burdensome. This situation normally happens at a battery charging post or an area that is specially designed for handling batteries. There are developing fast charging technologies that would be available on the market and these new systems are changing the process 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 what product is chosen.
Clients are striving to find lessen operating expenses and more efficient means to lessen operating expenses, all the while increasing their overall production, especially since the economy becomes more competitive and complex. Utilizing the wrong size of forklift could greatly slow things down and have a big effect on the bottom line and productivity of a business, while negatively affecting the production on the jobsite.
A trustworthy forklift dealer will be able to help if you are unsure about the specific kind of forklift you require. They would ask you right questions which would allow you to make a correct choice. Lots of dealerships provide rentals of their equipment also and this is a really great way to try before you commit to such a big purchase. It is also a nice way to try various models out to see which ones you and your drivers are the most comfortable with and which ones bring you the best productivity.