IC Lift Trucks
IC lift trucks are members of classes V and IV. Normally, they are available in diesel, liquid propane or gas units. Primarily, the ICE or internal combustion engine units are utilized outdoors, as they can operate in rough climate and produce some emissions. Propane-powered models, however, can be utilized indoors provided that proper ventilation is used. It is best to determine what particular requirements you need to utilize the forklift for and what types of settings you will be operating in, in order to ensure you pick the best unit that would suit all your requirements.
Internal Combustion Engine Benefits
Compared to a similar capacity electric truck, the Internal Combustion engine is offered in a lower initial purchase price varying anywhere from 20% to 40% lower. The ICE units are simple and fast to refuel. This feature really lessens downtime as 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 compared to electric lift truck units. Over recent years, there have been numerous changes regarding emissions technology and this has resulted in lower total levels of emission. Internal combustion engine trucks remain popular with load sizes around 8,000 pounds and even much higher in specific operations like for example lumberyard settings, steel manufacturing facilities and ports.
ICE Disadvantages
The Internal Combustion models do suffer from some drawbacks including a higher cost-per-hour to operate as compared to electric trucks, due to the excess needs for fuel. Additionally, these models usually create more noise than the electric units because they run louder. ICE trucks also have fuel-storage requirements to consider too.