Forklift Battery Safe Installation and Charging
Batteries utilized in forklifts are costly pieces of machines that are fairly large weighing in the thousands of pounds. The task of charging and installing these batteries is something that should be really planned out ahead of time in order to make sure that these methods can be completed properly and safely. Maintaining a sound charging method and proper handling can majorly increase the standard lifespan of a battery.
Standard Charging
It is important not to connect the battery to the charger until it is at 20% capacity or lower. By charging the battery when it is higher than 20%, the lifespan of the battery can really be shortened. On around each 5th charge cycle, the charger should be set on the equalize or weekend setting, depending on which kind of charger you are utilizing.
The charging cycle should never be interrupted. As soon as the charge cycle is complete, you should avoid using the battery for several hours. By practicing these methods, you would be able to help ensure that you get the maximum battery performance available.
Charger Maintenance
Make certain the charger is turned off before hooking up the battery to the charger. You then could connect the charger to the battery. This is a common error which could accidentally cause damage to both the forklift and the charger. Moreover, it is really vital that the battery amperage should match that of the charger.
Do not ever allow the battery to deep discharge or completely 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 occurs, a technician should be called to be able to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to start.