IC Lift Trucks
IC lift trucks are members of classes V and IV. Usually, they are available in gas, diesel or liquid propane models. Mainly, the ICE or also known as internal combustion engine units are used outside, because they produce some emissions and could function in inclement weather. However, propane-powered units, could be used indoors provided that proper ventilation is used. It is best to determine what kinds of settings you would be working in and what specific requirements you need to utilize the forklift for, to be able to make certain that you pick the right model to suit all your needs.
Internal Combustion Engine Benefits
Some of the advantages of ICE include a lower initial purchase price, compared to a similar capacity electric truck. This can vary anywhere from 20% to 40% lower. The Internal Combustion Engine models are very fast and simple to refuel. This feature greatly lessens downtime since there is no requirement to recharge any batteries, as there is with electric models.
To the similarly equipped electric truck, internal combustion units do provide a higher performance capabilities with far heavier lift capacities than electric lift truck models. Over recent years, there have been numerous advancements regarding emissions technology and this has resulted in lower total emission levels. Internal combustion engine trucks remain popular with load sizes roughly 8,000 pounds and even much higher in certain operations such as ports, lumberyard settings and steel manufacturing facilities.
ICE Disadvantages
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. As well, these models normally produce more noise than the electric units as they run louder. ICE trucks also have fuel-storage requirements to take into account as well.