Electric forklift units make up almost 60 percent of the forklift market. These units derive their power from big, heavy lead-acid batteries which which prevents the machinery from tipping over as it gives it the counterweight.
The ITA states that electric counterbalanced forklifts are considered Class 1 lift trucks. The category of Class1 also includes stand-up counterbalanced forklifts along with other electric trucks that are designed for general application. Though the first investment when you purchase an electric lift truck is more as opposed to an IC or internal combustion truck, electric trucks are less costly to operate and run in the long-run. This is because of lesser maintenance and fuel expenses, compared to the IC units.
The majority of the electric rider forklift trucks shipped within North America is made for transporting material indoors. They are commonly used in warehousing applications, and retail spaces. The electric models are the best choice for inside use as they emit zero toxic emissions and make less noise.
Moreover, electric lift truck can generally run a complete 8 hour shift on a single battery charge. Recharging, reloading and removing batteries, that roughly weigh around 3000 lbs. could be time consuming and difficult. This burdensome task usually requires a dedicated space for battery handling. However, new fast charging technologies are now used to change the procedure and update this method to be able to accomplish it in a a lot quicker way.
Fast charging technologies are considered the best charging technologies. It has revolutionized electric model forklifts and the time it takes to charge their batteries. The material handling industry professionals, state that these new developments within the battery charging systems and battery technology could cut charging time by as much as 50%!
Internal Combustion Counterbalanced Lift Trucks
The IC powered forklifts will depend on types of fuels, like LPG or liquid propane gas, diesel, CNG or compressed natural gas and gasoline. The bigger lift trucks are commonly used outdoors. Usually, these models operate on gas or diesel and utilizes pneumatic or air-filled tires so as to make them appropriate for rough terrain and steep inclines, compared to cushion tires. Cushion tires are better suited for smooth services and indoor use as they are made from solid rubber.
The most common fuel option for indoor trucks is LPG. There are over 600,000 propane-filled forklifts nowadays which are operating in DCs and within warehouses. These models offer a huge variety of advantages. Like for instance, propane-fueled lift trucks maintain 100 percent constant power during operation. Additionally, these units offer faster ground speeds as opposed to other power sources.