Electric forklift models make up almost sixty percent of the entire material handling market. Powering these units are extremely heavy lead-acid batteries. Because of their immense weight, these batteries naturally give much of the counterweight.
The counterbalanced type of forklifts have been classed as Class 1 forklifts by the ITA. Class 1 normally refers to electric forklifts designed for general applications and stand-up counterbalanced lift trucks. Though the first cost of an electric lift truck is more than IC lift trucks, electric models are less expensive to use eventually. This is due to their lesser fuel and maintenance expenses.
The majority of electric lift truck units that have been manufactured and designed in North America, are utilized mostly in indoor environments. Electric forklifts have traditionally been limited to indoor applications with clean and smooth surfaces. With the launch of several new Class 1 items, it is becoming more and more possible to use electric rider models in certain outdoor applications.
Due to the fact that electric forklift models provide no harmful emissions, they are normally selected for indoor operations when compared to Internal Combustion lift trucks. Electric units can complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are very quiet when in use. Electric model batteries weigh approximately 3,000 pounds. The job of recharging, reloading and removing the batteries can be time consuming and cumbersome. This situation usually occurs at a battery charging station or an area that is specially utilized for handling batteries. There are evolving fast charging technologies that would be available on the market and these new systems are changing the battery charging method.
The Right Fit
A main factor connected with any type of lift truck is utilizing the right size of model to complete the particular application. The application itself should always dictate what product is selected.
Clients are always looking for methods to lower their operating expenses and find more efficient work practices which help lessen these costs, while also improving their productivity. Utilizing the wrong size of forklift can greatly slow things down and have a big effect on the bottom line and profitability of a company, while negatively affecting the production on the jobsite.
If you are uncertain about what particular type of forklift you require, a reputable dealer would be able to ask you the right questions which will allow you to make a proper choice. Numerous dealerships provide rentals of their machinery as well and this is a good way to try before you commit to such a huge purchase. It is also a nice way to try different units out to see which ones bring you the best production and which ones you and your drivers are the most comfortable with.