The electric forklift is generally the most ideal alternative for indoor applications within manufacturing and warehousing settings. This is mostly because of 2 reasons with the first being that they produce zero emissions. This is a really vital factor to consider for indoor work places. Amongst the IC or internal combustion units, only the propane-fueled units could be used indoors and these units still require really good ventilation. Units which run on diesel and gas are not able to be used inside under any circumstances.
Fuel cost is the other main advantage of electric lift trucks. These models have less cost per hour as opposed to any of the other internal combustion or IC models. One of the main drawbacks to the electric forklifts is their higher initial cost. Brand new electric lift trucks could vary from 20 percent to 40% more compared to IC models which are rated the same.
On the other hand, electric forklifts provide many benefits including quiet operation. This is a huge plus for indoor applications. Moreover, no fuel storage needs mean no room has to be allotted for tanks of fuels that are dangerous and flammable. As electric forklifts have less moving parts compared to IC models, and they are usually utilized inside and within cleaner settings, they tend to have a longer lifespan overall.
The electric forklifts biggest downside is the batteries downtime. The large and really heavy, lead acid batteries are somewhat similar to those now found inside cars. These batteries are really big and really strong. Typically, batteries provide enough power for one standard 8-hour shift, and this translates into 5 or 6 hours of nonstop use.
Originally, charging a lift truck battery takes roughly 8 hours. After the charging process is done, an additional 8 hours of cooling time is needed before it can be utilized. Because of this long process of slow charging speed and extra cooling time, if you require lift trucks for 2 or 3 shift operations, you must purchase additional batteries so you can always be charging the next battery. These additional batteries will add roughly $1000 to $2000 to purchase.
On the market today, there are some new fast charge electric lift trucks. These fast charge batteries have revolutionized the industry of electric lift trucks. Their charging can be done during the course of lunch and coffee breaks, allowing them to return to work much faster.