Around 60 percent of the forklift market is made up by electric forklift models. These models derive their power from big, heavy lead-acid batteries which give the machinery it's counterweight so as to avoid it from tipping over.
The ITA states that electric counterbalanced forklifts are considered Class 1 forklifts. The category of Class1 also encompasses stand-up counterbalanced lift trucks in addition to other electric trucks that are designed for general use. Though the initial investment when you purchase an electric lift truck is more than an internal combustion or IC lift truck, electric forklifts are much less expensive to operate and run in the long-run. This is due to lower maintenance and fuel expenses, than the internal combustion models.
Most of the electric rider forklift trucks shipped within North America is designed for moving material indoors. They are normally utilized in warehousing applications, and retail spaces. The electric units are the best alternative for inside use since they make less noise and emit zero toxic emissions.
The battery of an electric forklift could operate on average for 8 hours or for one shift. The recharging, reloading and removing batteries which weigh upwards of 3000 pounds can be difficult and time consuming. This cumbersome task usually requires a dedicated space for handling the battery. However, new fast charging technologies are being used to update this method and change the procedure to be able to accomplish it in a a lot quicker way.
This fast charging technology is considered to be enhanced charging technology. It has changed electric model forklifts and the charging time of their batteries. The experts of the material handling business, state that these new changes within the battery technology and battery charging systems can cut charging time by up to 50 percent!
Internal Combustion or IC Counterbalanced Forklifts
IC lift trucks rely on a variety of different kinds of fuels, including liquid propane gas or LPG, diesel, CNG or compressed natural gas and gasoline. The larger lift trucks are commonly used outdoors. Normally, these models operate on gas or diesel and uses pneumatic or air-filled tires so as to make them suitable for steep slopes and rough environment, compared to cushion tires. Cushion tires are better suited for smooth services and indoor applications because they are made from solid rubber.
The LPG model is the most common fuel option for indoor trucks. These days, there are more than 600,000 propane-filled forklifts operating around the world. These units offer various advantages. Like for example, lift trucks which operate on propane fuel maintain 100 percent consistent power during operation. Moreover, these units provide faster ground speeds compared to other power sources.