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foRklift tRucks


due to their consistent power delivery and high performance. however, with the expansion and advancement of new electrification options, the motive power landscape is shifting. lithium-ion batteries in particular are gaining


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traction. these power sources are now available on more lift truck product classes and capacities than ever before, capable of delivering the long- lasting, high performance that intensive applications require. while traditional ice forklifts may still be the best fit for some jobs, more applications than ever are suitable candidates for electrification, which could help operations overcome common productivity challenges. Rather than simply accepting the status quo of


your lift truck power, it might be time to rethink your power options. these are four of the signs that it’s time to make a change.


1. DEMAnDing cOnDitiOnS cAnnOt SlOw DOwn PRODuctiVity extreme temperatures, environments, and duty cycles can push equipment to its limits, resulting in wear that can lead to equipment downtime and productivity bottlenecks. to manage this risk, operations should explore power sources that are proven to perform. historically, ice lift trucks have been the tried-


and-tested option for demanding outdoor applications. But electric trucks can handle tough temperatures and outdoor operation, as well as working indoors. lithium-ion batteries, for example, help lift


trucks run reliably and consistently over multiple shifts. so, lift truck drivers are able to spend more time being productive – not on complex battery charging and changing processes.


2. yOu StRugglE tO finD AnD REtAin lABOuR lift truck operators are in short supply. with competition fierce for a limited talent pool, good employees are not only difficult to find, but hard to hang on to. to keep lift truck operators engaged and performing at their best, ergonomics, and comfort are key. electric-powered lift trucks produce less noise than their ic counterparts and transmit fewer vibrations to the operator, offering a smoother ride. they also do not emit harmful exhaust, improving air quality and creating a cleaner work environment. Difficulty finding and retaining labour can


sometimes force companies to hire employees who have limited experience operating forklifts.


Rethink youR lift tRuck poweR


when working with traditional lead-acid batteries and lpG fuel bottles, lack of experience can potentially increase safety hazards with regard to battery handling and charging or gas bottle changing. in addition demotivated or unhappy operators may have poor charging habits, leading to shorter battery life over time. with less-experienced operators, it is best to


have forklifts that are intuitive to operate and simple to maintain. newer power sources, like lithium-ion batteries, typically require less maintenance and less charging time in a shift, so you can make the best use of the operators you have.


3. MAintEnAncE cOStS ARE Out Of cOntROl All forklifts require some level of planned and unplanned maintenance, whether on a weekly, monthly, or quarterly basis. so, it is important to understand the maintenance requirements for each power option. ice power means a whole host of powertrain


items that require periodic service or replacement, including fluid, filters, spark plugs, belts, or other items prone to wear. electric powertrains offer greater simplicity and fewer service items. lead acid batteries do require


18 octoBeR 2023 | fActoRy&hAnDlinGsolutions


emanding materials handling applications have historically depended on lift trucks with internal combustion engines (ices),


By Robert O'Donoghue VP Marketing and Solutions, EMEA for Hyster


some maintenance and additional processes to ensure they perform to their potential, including equalising, watering, and off-gassing, but lithium- ion batteries offer a simpler approach. lithium-ion batteries are maintenance free and can be plugged in without any special pre- or post-charging steps, which means lift truck operators are able to spend more time being productive.


4. yOu ARE cOMMittED tO SuStAinABility Various regulations are putting pressure on industries to reduce their environmental impact. Meanwhile, many businesses have their own green initiatives that seek to reduce fossil fuel emissions. this puts emissions from industrial trucks in focus for those trying to meet sustainability targets. for managers charged with finding ways to


meet those targets, reducing emissions from ice-powered lift trucks can provide environmental benefit related to emissions. Also, lead-acid batteries require off-gassing as part of the charging process and carry the risk of potential acid leak and corrosion. newer power options like lithium-ion batteries do not come with these characteristics.


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