Internal Combustion Lift Trucks
IC lift trucks are members of classes V and IV. Typically, they are available in liquid propane, gas or diesel models. Primarily, the ICE or internal combustion engine units are used outside, as they emit some emissions and could operate in rough weather. Propane-powered units, on the other hand, could be utilized indoors provided that proper ventilation is used. It is better to determine what types of environments you will be working in and what particular requirements you have to utilize the forklift for, to be able to ensure you choose the best unit that would suit your needs.
Internal Combustion Engine Benefits
Several of the advantages of internal combustion engines include a lower initial purchase price, compared to a similar capacity electric truck. This can vary anywhere from 20% to 40% lower. The ICE units are fast and easy to refuel. This feature really lessens downtime as there is no need to recharge any batteries, as there is with electric units.
Most often, Internal Combustion Engine units provide higher performance capabilities compared to the similarly equipped electric truck. The heavier capacity is normally available in these units compared to electric trucks. Over recent years, there have been numerous changes regarding emissions technology and this has resulted in lower total emission levels. Internal combustion engine trucks remain popular with load sizes approximately 8,000 pounds and even much higher in certain applications like for instance lumberyard settings, steel manufacturing facilities and ports.
ICE Drawbacks
The IC models do suffer from several disadvantages including a higher cost-per-hour to operate as compared to electric trucks, due to the excess needs for fuel. What's more, these units normally create more noise compared to the electric models because they run louder. ICE trucks also have fuel-storage requirements to take into account too.