Forklift Battery Safe Installation and Charging
Batteries utilized in forklifts are expensive pieces of machinery that are fairly large weighing many pounds. The task of charging and installing these batteries is something that should be really planned out ahead of time in order to make sure that these methods can be done properly and safely. Maintaining proper handling and a sound charging method can really increase the standard lifespan of a battery.
Standard Charging
It is recommended that the battery is not connected to the charger until it is at or lower than 20 percent capacity. By charging the battery when it is higher than 20 percent, the lifespan of the battery could actually be shortened. On approximately every 5th charge cycle, the charger needs to be set on the equalize or weekend setting, depending on which type of charger you are using.
The charging cycle must never be interrupted. When the charge cycle is complete, you must avoid utilizing the battery for several hours. By practicing these procedures, you will be able to help make certain that you get the maximum battery performance available.
Charger Maintenance
Be sure to have the charger turned off when 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. It is also very important that the amperage of the battery should match that of the charger.
The battery should 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 occurs, a technician should be called to be able to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to begin.