Just as it is critical to use the correct lift truck for your operation, it is also imperative that the right power source is selected, based on the operation. Different types of power should be used based on the desired run time, application, and changing methodology. With chargers being more intelligent than ever and battery management systems giving you real time data, power has become as important as the truck itself.

When deciding on power, there are several alternatives to consider.

Power Sources

Wet Cell Lead Acid — the staple of power source for years. It is still a major player but losing market share every year.

Sealed Maintenance Free — maintenance free means just that. No watering required, but the life cycle is not as long as other types and are typically used on smaller lift trucks.

Thin Plate Pure Lead (TPPL) — also maintenance free (no watering required) that hold a charge longer, charge quicker, and are being used in all types of lift trucks. A great alternative to bridge the price gap from wet cell to lithium-ion.

Lithium-Ion batteries are currently the rage. As manufacturers get UL approval, the swing toward lithium-ion is increasing. Although expensive, customers are finding, in the right applications, lithium-ion batteries are the right choice.

Hydrogen Fuel Cells Although many large truck users initially thought this would be the future of lift truck power, it really became the bridge until lithium-ion proved itself successful. Requiring infrastructure to support the hydrogen requirements, fuel cells seem to be a thing of the past.

Guaranteed Power — the discipline of watering batteries, choosing the correct power, etc., all go away when you leave the power to us. A 5-year term includes all maintenance, replacement batteries and chargers, and maximum uptime for your facility.

Regardless of your current state, many of the above power options would be a good fit for your operation. Having a local solutions and support center like Abel Womack do a power study to determine what is the best technology to use is fast and free.

Additional resources: Energy ROI Calculator