Forklift Battery Safe Installation and Charging
Batteries utilized in forklifts are costly pieces of equipment that are fairly large weighing in the thousands of pounds. The job of installing and charging these batteries is something which should be planned out ahead of time so as to make sure that these methods can be done safely and correctly. Maintaining a sound charging method and correct handling could really increase the battery's regular life span.
Standard Charging
It is vital not to connect the battery to the charger until it is at 20 percent capacity or less. By charging the battery when it is higher than 20 percent, the battery's lifespan can actually be shortened. On approximately each 5th charge cycle, the charger needs to be set on the equalize or weekend setting, depending on which kind of charger you are utilizing.
The cycle of charging must not get interrupted. You must avoid using the battery for some hours once the charge cycle is done. By practicing these methods, you could 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 forklift. This is a common error that could inadvertently cause damage to both the charger and the forklift. Also, it is really essential that the battery amperage must match that of the charger.
Do not ever allow the battery to completely discharge or to deep discharge. This will shorten the battery life greatly and may 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 occurs, a technician would need to be called to be able to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to start.