Forklift Battery Charging and Safe Installation
Batteries used in forklifts are costly pieces of machinery that are quite big weighing in the thousands of pounds. The job of charging and installation of these batteries is something which must be planned out in advanced so as to make sure that these procedures could be done safely and correctly. Maintaining a sound charging procedure and proper handling could really increase the regular lifespan of a battery.
Standard Charging
It is recommended that the battery is not connected to the charger until it is at or less than 20% capacity. By charging the battery when it is higher than 20%, the battery's lifespan can actually be shortened. On around each 5th charge cycle, the charger must be set on the equalize or weekend setting, depending on what kind of charger you are using.
The cycle of charging must not get interrupted. You should avoid utilizing the battery for a few hours when the charge cycle is complete. By practicing these procedures, 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 accidentally cause damage to both the charger and the forklift. It is also very essential that the battery amperage 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 can even prevent the charger from being able to start. 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 must be called to be able to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to begin.