Forklift Battery Charging and Safe Installation
Batteries used in forklifts are pricey pieces of machinery which are quite big weighing many pounds. The task of charging and installing these batteries is something which will have to be planned out ahead of time in order to make certain that these procedures can be done safely and correctly. Maintaining a sound charging procedure and proper handling could majorly increase the battery's standard life span.
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 percent, the battery's lifespan can actually be shortened. On approximately every 5th charge cycle, the charger must be set on the weekend or equalize setting, depending on what model of charger you are utilizing.
The cycle of charging should not get interrupted. You should avoid utilizing the battery for several hours once the charge cycle is complete. By practicing these methods, you would be able to help make sure that you get the maximum battery performance available.
Charger Maintenance
Be certain 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 could inadvertently cause damage to both the forklift and the charger. Furthermore, it is really vital that the battery amperage should match that of the charger.
Do not ever allow the battery to completely discharge or to deep discharge. This would shorten the battery life significantly and may even prevent the charger from being able to activate. If the battery charger reads that there is no battery activity, it will not start the charge cycle. If this situation occurs, a technician should be called to be able to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to start.