Electric lift truck units make up almost 60 percent of the forklift market. These models get their power from big, heavy lead-acid batteries which which prevents the machinery from tipping over because it acts as the counterweight.
The ITA states that electric counterbalanced lift trucks are considered Class 1 forklifts. The category of Class1 also includes stand-up counterbalanced trucks in addition to other electric trucks which are made for general application. Though the initial investment when you purchase an electric lift truck is more than an IC or internal combustion lift truck, electric lift trucks are a lot less expensive to operate and run in the long-run. This is due to lower maintenance and fuel expenses, compared to the IC models.
Within North America, the majority of electric rider lift trucks are designed for transporting materials indoors. Electric rider trucks are utilized most frequently in warehousing applications, and retail spaces. The electric models are the best alternative for inside use since they make less noise and emit zero toxic emissions.
The battery of an electric forklift can operate on average for 8 hours or for one shift. The recharging, reloading and removing batteries that weigh upwards of 3000 pounds could be hard and time consuming. This cumbersome task often requires a dedicated area for battery handling. However, new fast charging technologies are now utilized to change the procedure and update this process to be able to complete it in a a lot faster method.
This fast charging technology is considered to be enhanced charging technology. It has revolutionized electric model forklifts and the time it takes to charge their batteries. The material handling business experts, state that these new developments in the battery charging systems and battery technology could cut charging time by up to 50%!
IC Counterbalanced Lift Trucks
The IC powered lift truck will rely on types of fuels, such as LPG or liquid propane gas, diesel, compressed natural gas or CNG and gasoline. The larger forklifts are normally used outside. Generally, these units operate on diesel or gas and uses pneumatic or air-filled tires in order to make them appropriate for rough environment and steep inclines, compared to cushion tires. Cushion tires are more suitable for smooth services and indoor applications because they are made from solid rubber.
The LPG unit is the most common fuel option for indoor trucks. These days, there are more than 600,000 propane-filled forklifts working all over the globe. These models provide various benefits. Like for example, forklifts which run on propane fuel maintain 100 percent consistent power during operation. What's more, these models offer faster ground speeds compared to other power sources.