Forklift Battery Safe Installation and Charging
Lift truck batteries are pretty big and are extremely expensive pieces of machines. They weigh thousands of pounds. The job of installing and charging these batteries is something which must be planned out ahead of time so as to make certain that these procedures can be done correctly and safely. Maintaining proper handling and a sound charging procedure could majorly increase the regular lifespan of a battery.
Standard Charging
It is vital not to connect the battery to the charger until it is at 20% capacity or less. By charging the battery when it is higher than 20 percent, the battery's lifespan could actually be shortened. On approximately each 5th charge cycle, the charger has to be set on the equalize or weekend setting, depending on what type of charger you are utilizing.
The charging cycle should never be interrupted. Once the charge cycle is done, you should avoid using the battery for several hours. By practicing these methods, you will be able to help make certain 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 forklift. This is a common mistake that could accidentally cause damage to both the forklift and the charger. It is also very vital that the battery amperage must 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 activity in the battery, it will not start the charge cycle. If this situation happens, a technician will have to be called in order to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to start.