Forklift Battery Charging and Safe Installation
Lift truck batteries are pretty large and are really costly pieces of machinery. They weigh thousands of pounds. The job of charging and installing these batteries is something that should be planned out ahead of time in order to make sure that these procedures could be done correctly and safely. Maintaining a sound charging method and correct handling can really increase the standard lifespan of a battery.
Standard Charging
It is vital not to connect the battery to the charger until it is at 20% capacity or less. 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 must be set on the equalize or weekend setting, depending on which type of charger you are using.
The cycle of charging must not get interrupted. You must avoid utilizing the battery for some hours once the charge cycle is complete. By practicing these procedures, you could 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 forklift. This is a common error that could inadvertently cause damage to both the charger and the forklift. It is also really essential that the amperage of the battery should match that of the charger.
Do not ever allow the battery to completely discharge or to deep discharge. This will shorten the battery life significantly and can 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 should be called in order to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to start.