Forklift Battery Safe Installation and Charging
Forklift batteries are fairly big and are really expensive pieces of machines. They weigh thousands of pounds. The job of installing and charging these batteries is something that will have to be planned out ahead of time so as to make certain that these procedures are able to be done correctly and safely. Maintaining correct handling and a sound charging procedure can majorly increase the battery's regular 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 battery's lifespan could actually be shortened. On roughly each 5th charge cycle, the charger must be set on the equalize or weekend setting, depending on which model of charger you are utilizing.
The cycle of charging should not get interrupted. You must avoid using the battery for some hours once the charge cycle is complete. By practicing these procedures, 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 when 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 error which can 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.
The battery must never be allowed to to deep discharge or to completely discharge. This would ultimately shorten the lift of the battery and could even prevent the charger from being able to start. If the battery charger reads that there is no activity in the battery, it would 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 begin.