Forklift Battery Charging and Safe Installation
Lift truck batteries are pretty big and are extremely costly pieces of machinery. They weigh thousands of pounds. The job of charging and installation of these batteries is something that should be planned out ahead of time so as to make certain that these methods are able to be done correctly and safely. Maintaining proper handling and a sound charging procedure could majorly increase the battery's usual life span.
Standard Charging
It is suggested that the battery is not connected to the charger until it is at or lower than 20% capacity. By charging the battery when it is higher than 20 percent, the lifespan of the battery can really be shortened. On around each 5th charge cycle, the charger needs to be set on the weekend or equalize setting, depending on what type of charger you are using.
The charging cycle should never be interrupted. When the charge cycle is complete, you must avoid using the battery for several hours. By practicing these methods, you can 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 mistake that could accidentally cause damage to both the charger and the forklift. Furthermore, it is very important that the amperage of the battery must match that of the charger.
The battery must never be allowed to completely discharge or deep discharge. This would ultimately shorten the lift of the battery and could 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 happens, a technician will have to be called to be able to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to start.