Forklift Battery Safe Installation and Charging
Lift truck batteries are pretty large and are really costly pieces of equipment. They weigh thousands of pounds. The job of installing and charging these batteries is something that should be really planned out ahead of time so as to make certain that these methods could be completed safely and correctly. Maintaining a sound charging procedure and correct handling can really increase the regular lifespan of a battery.
Standard Charging
It is recommended that the battery is not connected to the charger until it is at or less than 20% capacity. By charging the battery when it is higher than 20 percent, the lifespan of the battery can actually be shortened. On around each 5th charge cycle, the charger should be set on the equalize or weekend setting, depending on which type of charger you are utilizing.
The charging cycle must never be interrupted. When the charge cycle is complete, you must avoid utilizing the battery for a few 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 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 which can inadvertently cause damage to both the charger and the forklift. Also, it is very essential that the battery amperage should 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 might 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 to be able to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to begin.