Electric forklift models make up almost 60% of the entire material handling market. Powering these units are very heavy lead-acid batteries. Due to their immense weight, these batteries naturally give a lot of the counterweight.
Counterbalanced trucks are classified by the ITA as Class 1 forklifts. Class 1 also includes other electric trucks designed for general applications and stand-up counterbalanced trucks. Even though the first expense of an electric forklift is more than IC lift trucks, electric units are cheaper to use eventually. This is due to their lesser fuel and maintenance expenses.
Most of the electric rider trucks made and designed in North America are made for transporting material within 4 walls. Electric forklifts have traditionally been limited to indoor use with surfaces that are smooth and clean. With the launch of several new Class 1 items, it is becoming increasingly possible to use electric rider units in certain outdoor operations.
When compared to IC lift trucks, the electric trucks are typically chosen for indoor use due to the fact they produce no harmful emissions, could usually complete a full 8 hour shift on one battery charge and are extremely quiet to operate. The batteries for electric units weigh approximately 3,000 pounds. The job of reloading, recharging and removing the batteries can be time consuming and burdensome. This situation normally occurs at a battery charging zone or an area that is particularly used for handling batteries. There are evolving fast charging technologies that will be available on the market and these new systems are changing the battery charging method.
The Right Fit
A main factor connected with any kind of lift truck is using the right size of unit to do the specific application. The application itself should always dictate which product is chosen.
Customers are always looking for ways to lessen their operating expenses and find more efficient work practices which help lessen these costs, while also improving their production. Using the wrong size of forklift can really slow things down and have a big effect on the bottom line and success of a company, while negatively affecting the productivity on the jobsite.
If you are unsure about what particular type of forklift you need, a respectable dealer will be able to ask you the correct questions which will enable you to make a proper selection. Lots of dealerships provide rentals of their equipment too and this is a very good way to try before you commit to such a huge 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 production.