Internal Combustion Lift Trucks
The Internal Combustion forklift belongs in the class IV and V forklift classification. They can be diesel, liquid propane or gas models. Mostly, the ICE or also known as internal combustion engine models are utilized outdoors, since they produce some emissions and are able to operate in inclement weather conditions. However, propane-powered units, can be used indoors provided that proper ventilation is utilized. It is best to know what kinds of environments you will be operating in and what particular requirements you have to use the forklift for, in order to ensure you select the right unit to meet your requirements.
Internal Combustion Engine Benefits
Several of the benefits of ICE comprise a lower initial purchase price, compared to a similar capacity electric truck. This could range anywhere from 20% to 40% less. The Internal Combustion Engine units are really fast and easy to refuel. This feature really lessens downtime since there is no requirement 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 units. Over recent years, there have been many advancements regarding emissions technology and this has resulted in lower total levels of emission. Internal combustion engine trucks remain popular with load sizes roughly 8,000 pounds and even a lot higher in specific operations such as lumberyard settings, steel manufacturing facilities and ports.
ICE Disadvantages
The Internal Combustion units do suffer from some drawbacks such as a higher cost-per-hour to operate as compared to electric trucks, because of the excess needs for fuel. Additionally, these models usually produce more noise compared to the electric models since they run louder. ICE trucks also have fuel-storage requirements to take into consideration too.