Forklift Battery Safe Installation and Charging
Batteries used in forklifts are costly pieces of equipment which are fairly large weighing many pounds. The job of installing and charging these batteries is something that must be planned out in advanced in order to make certain that these procedures are able to be done correctly and safely. Maintaining correct handling and a sound charging method could majorly increase the battery's usual life span.
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 around every 5th charge cycle, the charger should be set on the equalize or weekend setting, depending on which type of charger you are using.
The charging cycle must never be interrupted. As soon as the charge cycle is complete, you should avoid using the battery for several hours. By practicing these methods, you can help make certain 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 can inadvertently cause damage to both the charger and the forklift. What's more, it is really important that the amperage of the battery must match that of the charger.
The battery should never be allowed to to deep discharge or to completely discharge. This will ultimately shorten the lift of the battery and could even prevent the charger from being able to start. If the battery charger reads that there is no activity in the battery, it would not start the charge cycle. If this situation occurs, a technician will need to be called in order to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to begin.