Electric Forklift Vs. Diesel Forklift
Forklifts can function one of two ways, either by internal combustion (IC) motor or by electric motor. Electric forklifts are suitable for indoor use and cost less to utilize. IC machines are best for outdoor use and are faster to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
Electric lifts produce no exhaust, that makes them the equipment of choice for indoor applications where the quality of air is a concern. Electric forklifts are clean and quiet. They are 20 - 40 percent more expensive to purchase than IC lifts, but the operating cost of electric models on a per hour basis is less. The downside is that batteries require 16 hours to charge and cool down, so the purchase of an extra set of batteries is suggested. Electric lifts are not limited for use indoors, but when utilized outdoors they must be used cautiously.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts are for outdoor applications, and their carrying capacity is more than electric forklifts. If your fleet generally runs on one type of fuel, it may be a wise choice to buy an IC unit that utilizes the same kind of fuel. They can function on diesel, gas or propane. Diesel is the most economical. IC forklifts have the advantage of being easy to refuel and cheaper to operate; nonetheless, their operating cost on a per hour basis is higher. The majority of IC models cannot be used indoors.
Other Kinds of Forklifts
Inside warehouses where there are tight spaces, the narrow aisle electric forklift is most suitable. They are designed to pick up loads without having to position the lift facing the stacks. Rough terrain diesel forklifts have big tires for running on hard surfaces.