Electric forklift models make up almost 60% of the entire material handling market. Powering these units are really heavy lead-acid batteries. Due to their massive weight, these batteries naturally provide a lot of the counterweight.
The counterbalanced type of forklifts have been classed as Class 1 lift trucks by the ITA. Class 1 normally refers to electric lift trucks designed for general use and stand-up counterbalanced lift trucks. Even if the first expense of an electric forklift is more than IC forklifts, electric models are cheaper to operate eventually. This is due to their lesser fuel and maintenance expenses.
Most electric lift truck units which have been made and engineered in North America, are used mostly in indoor settings. Electric forklifts have usually been limited to indoor applications with surfaces that are smooth and clean. With the introduction of some new Class 1 items, it is becoming increasingly possible to utilize electric rider models in certain outdoor operations.
Because of the fact that electric forklift units provide no harmful emissions, they are usually chosen for indoor applications when compared to Internal Combustion forklifts. Electric units could complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are really quiet when in use. Electric model batteries weigh approximately 3,000 pounds. The job of recharging, reloading and removing the batteries could be time consuming and burdensome. This situation usually happens at a battery charging station or an area that is specifically designed for handling batteries. There are evolving fast charging technologies that will be available on the market and these new systems are changing the process of charging batteries.
The Right Fit
A main factor connected with any kind of forklift is using the correct size of unit to do the specific operation. The application itself should always dictate which product is selected.
Customers are always looking for means to lessen their operating costs and find more effective work practices that help lower these costs, while also improving their productivity. Utilizing the wrong size of forklift can really slow things down and have a big impact on the bottom line and success of a business, while negatively affecting the productivity on the jobsite.
A good forklift dealer would be able to assist if you are uncertain about the specific type of forklift you require. They will ask you correct questions which will allow you to make a correct choice. Numerous dealerships provide rentals of their machinery too and this is a good way to try before you commit to such a big purchase. It is also a good way to try various units out to see which ones you and your operators are the most comfortable with and which ones bring you the best production.