Forklift Battery Charging and Safe Installation
Lift truck batteries are quite big and are very costly pieces of machinery. They weigh thousands of pounds. The task of charging and installation of these batteries is something that must be planned out ahead of time so as to make certain that these procedures are able to be completed safely and correctly. Maintaining proper handling and a sound charging method could majorly increase the regular lifespan of a battery.
Standard Charging
It is suggested that the battery is not connected to the charger until it is at or lower than 20% capacity. By charging the battery when it is higher than 20%, the lifespan of the battery could really be shortened. On roughly every 5th charge cycle, the charger has to be set on the equalize or weekend setting, depending on what model of charger you are utilizing.
The charging cycle should never be interrupted. As soon as the charge cycle is complete, you must avoid utilizing the battery for several hours. By practicing these procedures, you can help make sure that you get the maximum battery performance available.
Charger Maintenance
Be certain to have the charger turned off while in the process of hooking up the battery to the charger. Connect the charger to the battery and not the lift truck. This is a common error that could accidentally cause damage to both the forklift and the charger. In addition, it is very vital that the amperage of the battery must match that of the charger.
The battery must never be allowed to completely discharge or deep discharge. This would ultimately shorten the lift of the battery and may even prevent the charger from being able to start. If the battery charger reads that there is no battery activity, it would not start the charge cycle. If this situation happens, a technician should be called in order to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to start.