Forklift Battery Charging and Safe Installation
Batteries used in forklifts are costly pieces of equipment that are quite big weighing many pounds. The job of charging and installing these batteries is something which must 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 standard 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 more than 20%, the battery's lifespan can actually be shortened. On about every 5th charge cycle, the charger has to be set on the weekend or equalize setting, depending on which type of charger you are using.
The charging cycle must never be interrupted. When the charge cycle is done, you must avoid utilizing the battery for some hours. By practicing these procedures, you could help make certain 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 could inadvertently cause damage to both the forklift and the charger. Additionally, it is very important that the amperage of the battery must match that of the charger.
The battery should never be allowed to to deep discharge or to completely discharge. This will ultimately shorten the lift of the battery 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 must be called in order to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to start.