Electric Forklift Vs. Diesel Forklift
Forklifts could function one of two ways, either by electric motor or by internal combustion (IC) motor. Electric forklifts are suitable for indoor use and cost less to utilize. IC equipment are suitable for use outdoors and are quicker to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
Electric lifts produce no exhaust, which makes them the machinery of choice for indoor applications where the quality of air is a concern. Electric forklifts are quiet and clean. They are 20 - 40 percent more expensive to buy compared to IC lifts, but the operating cost of electric models on a per hour basis is lower. The disadvantage is that batteries need 16 hours to charge and cool down, so the purchase of an extra set of batteries is recommended. Electric lifts are not limited to indoor application, but when used outdoors they must be utilized carefully.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts have a higher carrying capacity than electric forklifts and are usually used for outdoor applications. If your fleet generally operates on one type of fuel, it may be a wise idea to purchase an IC unit that utilizes the same type of fuel. They could run on diesel, gas or propane. Diesel is the most economical. IC forklifts have the advantage of being cheaper to operate and easy to refuel; nonetheless, their per-hour cost to operate is higher. Most IC models cannot be used indoors.
Other Types of Forklifts
Inside warehouses where there are tight 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 huge tires for running on hard surfaces.