Electric lift truck units make up nearly 60 percent of the lift truck market. These units get their power from heavy, large lead-acid batteries which which prevents the machine from tipping over since it gives it the counterweight.
The ITA states that electric counterbalanced trucks are considered Class 1 forklifts. The category of Class1 also encompasses stand-up counterbalanced trucks in addition to other electric trucks that are designed for general use. Though the first investment when you buy an electric lift truck is more than an IC or internal combustion truck, electric trucks are a lot less costly to operate and run in the long-run. This is because of lower maintenance and fuel expenses, compared to the internal combustion models.
Within North America, the majority of electric rider lift trucks are made for transporting materials indoors. Electric rider forklifts are used most frequently in retail spaces, and warehousing applications. The electric units are the best alternative for inside applications since they make less noise and emit zero toxic emissions.
The battery of an electric lift truck can operate on average for 8 hours or for one shift. The reloading, recharging and removing batteries that weigh upwards of 3000 pounds could be difficult and time consuming. This cumbersome task usually requires a dedicated space for battery handling. Nonetheless, new fast charging technologies are now used to change the procedure and update this process to be able to complete it in a much faster way.
This fast charging technology is considered to be enhanced charging technology. It has revolutionized electric unit lift trucks and the time it takes to charge their batteries. The material handling business experts, state that these new changes in the battery technology and battery charging systems could cut charging time by as much as 50%!
IC or Internal Combustion Counterbalanced Forklifts
The IC powered forklifts would rely on types of fuels, like LPG or liquid propane gas, diesel, CNG or compressed natural gas and gasoline. The bigger forklifts are normally utilized outdoors. Normally, these units operate on diesel or gas and utilizes air-filled or pneumatic tires so as to make them suitable for steep slopes and rough terrain, compared to cushion tires. Cushion tires are more suitable for smooth services and indoor use since they are made from solid rubber.
The LPG model is the most common fuel choice for indoor trucks. Nowadays, there are over 600,000 propane-filled forklifts operating all around the globe. These models provide various benefits. For example, propane-fueled forklifts maintain 100% consistent power during operation. Furthermore, these units provide faster ground speeds as opposed to other power sources.