Diesel Forklifts Versus Electric Forklifts
Forklifts could function one of two ways, either by internal combustion (IC) motor or by electric motor. Electric forklifts are best for use indoors and cost less to use. IC machinery are best for outdoor use and are quicker to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
For indoor applications, where the quality of air is a concern, the electric forklift is the best machinery you could utilize since it produces no exhaust. Electric forklifts are clean and are not noisy. They are 20 - 40 percent more expensive to purchase than IC lifts, but the per-hour operating cost of electric models is a lot less. The disadvantage is that batteries need 16 hours to charge and cool down, so purchasing an extra set of batteries is suggested. Electric lifts are not limited to indoor application, but when utilized outdoors they must be used cautiously.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts have a higher carrying capacity than electric forklifts and are usually used for outdoor applications. If your fleet normally operates on one kind of fuel, it might be a good idea to purchase an IC unit which utilizes the same kind of fuel. They can run on gas, propane or diesel. Diesel is the most economical. IC forklifts have the advantage of being easy to refuel and cheaper to operate; nonetheless, their per-hour cost to operate is higher. Nearly all IC models cannot be utilized indoors.
Other Kinds of Forklifts
In warehouses where there are limited spaces, the narrow aisle electric forklift is most suitable. They are constructed to pick up loads without having to position the lift facing the stacks. Rough terrain diesel forklifts have big tires for running on difficult surfaces.