IC Lift Trucks
IC lift trucks are members of classes V and IV. Normally, they are offered in gas, diesel or liquid propane units. Primarily, the ICE or also known as internal combustion engine models are used outdoors, because they can operate in rough weather conditions and emit some emissions. Propane-powered units, however, can be used indoors provided that proper ventilation is used. It is best to determine what specific requirements you have to utilize the forklift for and what kinds of settings you would be operating in, in order to make sure that you pick the best model to meet your requirements.
ICE Benefits
Some 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% less. The Internal Combustion Engine models are very fast and simple to refuel. This feature really reduces downtime since there is no need to recharge any batteries, as there is with electric units.
To the similarly equipped electric truck, internal combustion units do provide a higher performance capabilities with far heavier lift capacities compared to electric lift truck units. Over recent years, there have been numerous advancements regarding emissions technology and this has resulted in lower total levels of emission. Internal combustion engine trucks remain popular with load sizes around 8000 lbs. and even much higher in certain applications such as steel manufacturing facilities, ports and lumberyard settings.
Internal Combustion Engine Drawbacks
There are some drawbacks to the Internal Combustion Engine models. For example, they use a higher cost-per-hour to operate as compared to electric trucks. This is mostly due to maintenance costs and fuel. As well, these models usually create more noise than the electric units because they run louder. ICE trucks also have fuel-storage requirements to take into account as well.