Consider the Fast Charge Option
There is an old rule of thumb regarding recharging batteries of forklifts. It goes something like: use a battery for 8 hours, charge it for 8 hours and then lastly, let it cool for 8 hours. This formula has changed for numerous work operations which run more than one 8 hour shift. The fast charging alternative has become an extremely popular alternative to traditional charging and ever since its evolution; many businesses have opted to make the switch.
What Are the Benefits of Fast Charging?
Less Charging Time
Where the typical charger and battery was concerned, re-energizing a battery from a 20% state of charge up to a complete 100% charge used to take approximately 8 hours. Fast charging could now accomplish this same charging in approximately an hour to an hour and 30 minutes! Many businesses utilize scheduled break and lunch times to accomplish this important job.
Easier Refills
The fast charge batteries would usually require a single-point watering system. This system means that users do not require removing the battery from the lift truck in order to water it.
Temperature-Sensitive Design
These new fast charge batteries have a thermistor placed close to the center cell in order to monitor temperature. Once the temperature gets to a specific level, the charge rate is reduced and sometimes even stopped so as to make sure the battery does not overheat. This process can unfortunately result in an undercharged battery. There are some particular fast charge battery brands which use extra thick posts, copper inserts and inter-cell connectors in order to increase conductivity and reduce heat generation because of the higher current. These features help to allow the battery to accept a higher charge rate for a longer time period.
These machinery have seen their overall productivity increase significantly since the fast charge battery system was created. Before, businesses used to require more than one equipment when they were operating around the clock; now they could save much money and utilize one lift truck twice as much in a day with by utilizing the fast charging batteries.