Forklift Battery Charging and Safe Installation
Batteries used in forklifts are costly pieces of machinery that are pretty large weighing many pounds. The job of installing and charging these batteries is something that should be really planned out ahead of time in order to make sure that these methods can be completed properly and safely. Maintaining proper handling and a sound charging procedure could majorly increase the usual lifespan of a battery.
Standard Charging
It is essential not to connect the battery to the charger until it is at 20% capacity or lower. By charging the battery when it is higher than 20 percent, the lifespan of the battery could actually be shortened. On roughly every 5th charge cycle, the charger has to be set on the equalize or weekend setting, depending on what kind of charger you are using.
The cycle of charging should not get interrupted. You must avoid utilizing the battery for a few hours once the charge cycle is done. By practicing these methods, you will be able to help ensure 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 lift truck. This is a common mistake which can accidentally cause damage to both the forklift and the charger. It is also very essential that the amperage of the battery must match that of the charger.
Do not ever allow the battery to completely discharge or to deep discharge. This will shorten the battery life greatly and could even prevent the charger from being able to start. If the battery charger reads that there is no battery activity, it will not start the charge cycle. If this situation happens, a technician will have to be called to be able to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to begin.