IC Lift Trucks
IC lift trucks are members of classes V and IV. Typically, they are available in diesel, liquid propane or gas units. Primarily, the ICE or internal combustion engine models are utilized outdoors, since they produce some emissions and are able to operate in rough climate. Propane-powered units, however, could be utilized indoors as long as proper ventilation is utilized. It is best to know what particular requirements you have to utilize the forklift for and what kinds of environments you will be operating in, to be able to ensure you select the right unit to meet all of your needs.
ICE Benefits
Several of the advantages of ICE consist of a lower initial purchase price, compared to a similar capacity electric truck. This can range anywhere from 20% to 40% lower. The Internal Combustion Engine models are really easy and fast to refuel. This feature greatly lessens downtime since there is no need to recharge any batteries, as there is with electric models.
To the similarly equipped electric truck, IC units do provide a higher performance capabilities with far heavier lift capacities than electric lift truck models. Over recent years, there have been many changes regarding emissions technology and this has resulted in lower total levels of emission. ICE trucks remain popular with load sizes roughly 8000 lbs. and even a lot higher in specific applications like for example ports, lumberyard settings and steel manufacturing facilities.
Internal Combustion Engine Disadvantages
There are a few drawbacks to the Internal Combustion Engine models. Like for example, they utilize a higher cost-per-hour to operate as compared to electric trucks. This is mainly due to maintenance costs and fuel. In addition, these units usually produce more noise compared to the electric models since they run louder. Internal Combustion Engine trucks also have fuel-storage requirements to take into account too.