Forklift Battery Safe Installation and Charging
Batteries utilized in forklifts are pricey pieces of machinery that are pretty big weighing in the thousands of pounds. The job of installing and charging these batteries is something that should be really planned out ahead of time in order to make certain that these procedures are able to be completed safely and properly. Maintaining a sound charging procedure and proper handling could majorly increase the regular lifespan of a battery.
Standard Charging
It is vital not to connect the battery to the charger until it is at 20% capacity or lower. By charging the battery when it is more than 20%, the lifespan of the battery could actually be shortened. On around each 5th charge cycle, the charger has to be set on the equalize or weekend setting, depending on which model of charger you are using.
The cycle of charging must not get interrupted. You must avoid using the battery for several hours when the charge cycle is complete. By practicing these methods, you can help make certain that you get the maximum battery performance available.
Charger Maintenance
Be sure 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 forklift. This is a common error that can accidentally cause damage to both the charger and the forklift. Additionally, it is very vital that the amperage of the battery should match that of the charger.
Do not ever allow the battery to deep discharge or completely discharge. This would shorten the battery life significantly and could 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 must be called in order to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to begin.