Internal Combustion Lift Trucks
Internal combustion lift trucks are members of classes V and IV. Usually, they are offered in diesel, liquid propane or gas models. Primarily, the ICE or internal combustion engine units are used outdoors, because they can operate in inclement weather conditions and emit some emissions. However, propane-powered models, can be utilized indoors provided that proper ventilation is used. It is best to determine what types of settings you will be operating in and what specific requirements you have to utilize the forklift for, to be able to make certain that you choose the best unit to meet your requirements.
ICE Benefits
Several of the advantages of ICE consist of a lower initial purchase price, compared to a similar capacity electric truck. This can vary anywhere from 20% to 40% lower. The Internal Combustion Engine models are fast and simple to refuel. This feature greatly lessens downtime as there is no need to recharge any batteries, as there is with electric models.
To the similarly equipped electric truck, internal combustion units do provide a higher performance capabilities with far heavier lift capacities than electric lift truck models. Over recent years, there have been many advancements regarding emissions technology and this has resulted in lower total emission levels. ICE trucks remain popular with load sizes around 8,000 pounds and even much higher in specific applications like for example ports, lumberyard settings and steel manufacturing facilities.
Internal Combustion Engine Disadvantages
The IC models do suffer from a few disadvantages such as a higher cost-per-hour to operate as compared to electric trucks, because of the excess needs for fuel. Moreover, these models usually create more noise compared to the electric units because they run louder. ICE trucks also have fuel-storage requirements to consider as well.