Diesel Forklifts Versus Electric Forklifts
Forklifts can function one of two ways, either by internal combustion (IC) motor or by electric motor. Electric forklifts are suitable for indoor application and cost much less to use. IC machines are suitable for outdoor use and are faster to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
For indoor applications, where air quality is a problem, the electric forklift is the ideal equipment you could use because it produces no exhaust. Electric forklifts are quiet and clean. They are 20 - 40 percent more expensive to buy than IC lifts, but the operating cost of electric models on a per hour basis is a lot less. The downside is that batteries require 16 hours to charge and cool down, so purchasing an extra set of batteries is recommended. Electric lifts are not limited to indoor application, but when used outdoors they must be used carefully.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts have a higher carrying capacity compared to electric forklifts and are generally utilized for outdoor applications. If your fleet generally runs on one type of fuel, it might be a good choice to purchase an IC unit that utilizes the same kind of fuel. They could function on gas, propane or diesel. Diesel is the least expensive. IC forklifts have the advantage of being easy to refuel and less expensive to operate; nevertheless, their operating cost on a per hour basis is higher. Most IC models cannot be utilized indoors.
Other Types of Forklifts
Narrow-aisle electric forklifts are recommended for limited spaces inside warehouses. They are designed to pick up loads without having to face the lift towards the stacks. Rough terrain diesel forklifts have huge tires for running on difficult surfaces.