A: If “opportunity charged”, a Lithium Ion battery forklift can continue to work beyond an 8 hour shift. An opportunity charge is when the forklift is connected to the charger on breaks, during lunch hour and between shifts for 15-30 minutes. Even a short charge when the opportunity arises can keep a Lithium Ion forklift productive for multiple shifts.
A: Depending on the level of discharge, it may take as much as 2 hours to fully charge a Lithium forklift battery, however, Lithium forklift batteries do not need to be fully charged to work effectively as they don’t lose performance until they are nearly depleted unlike standard lead-acid batteries which lose voltage as they are depleted. Some of the forklifts ACT offers ship with a battery and charger, others do not. Various types of batteries and chargers are available. Ask your local ACT representative for more information by clicking here.
A: Smaller Electric lithium pallet jack models have batteries that can be easily swapped for continuous operation, however larger equipment such as sit-down riders do not have batteries that can easily be swapped without special battery handling equipment. These larger batteries normally need to be charged in the equipment unless battery changing equipment is on hand to swap batteries.
A: Electric forklifts are offered by ACT capable of lifting as much as 17,500 lbs. The capacity does not diminish by height as each forklift rated to lift a capacity can safely lift stated weight at the full height it was designed for. Note that mast height can vary from model to model and special orders can be made for higher lifting capabilities if needed.
A: Some electric forklifts are designed to be used outdoors and indoors. These are insulated differently and have more ground clearance as well as more rugged tires for traction. Additionally, these models can be ordered with an enclosed cab for increased operator comfort. ACT offers outdoor electric forklifts.
A: Electric forklifts have some of the same maintenance requirements as internal combustion models. Mast greasing and chain maintenance, brakes and hydraulic function maintenance and tire maintenance is still needed, but electric models don’t need oil and filter changes for the engine which is a significant difference.
A: Yes, ACT offers all types of needed attachments for forklifts and are experts at determining the best attachment for any type of application.
A: Electric forklifts made for the outdoors are just as capable as typical outdoor internal combustion forklifts. They have the ground clearance required to drive outdoors on gravel and can traverse unlevel ground and transitions between surfaces.
A: Yes, most electric forklifts we offer feature regenerative braking.
A: Electric equipment can cost a little more up front, depending on the brand of the unit, battery and charger, and any electrical system upgrades that may be required, however, it has been proven that over time significant cost savings are gained by using electric powered equipment compared to internal combustion equipment especially in a medium to heavy use scenario. These savings are because of lower maintenance requirements and comparatively less expense in fuel as charging batteries is less costly than LP gas or diesel fuels.
A: Each manufacturer has their own warranty coverage and additional coverage is available depending on the assurance you need of guaranteed operation and low “surprise” expenses.
A: ACT offers a variety of forklifts and pallet jacks (https://www.actforklift.com/pallet-jacks/) engineered specifically for cold storage applications. Cold storage conditioning packages and galvanization options ensure your equipment will keep running even in cold, damp environments.
A: ACT offers safety training per OSHA requirements. Depending on the equipment transition, current training may already be adequate. Contact ACT’s safety training for more information by clicking here.
A: Depending on the area of your operation, there may be governmental incentives and tax breaks to purchasing electric equipment.
