Forklift Battery Charging and Safe Installation
Lift truck batteries are pretty big and are really costly pieces of equipment. They weigh thousands of pounds. The task of charging and installing these batteries is something which must be planned out ahead of time in order to make sure that these methods could be completed properly and safely. Maintaining proper handling and a sound charging method can really increase the usual lifespan of a battery.
Standard Charging
It is essential 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 percent, the lifespan of the battery could actually be shortened. On roughly each 5th charge cycle, the charger has to be set on the equalize or weekend setting, depending on what model of charger you are using.
The cycle of charging must not get interrupted. You must avoid using the battery for several hours when the charge cycle is complete. By practicing these methods, you can help make sure 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 lift truck. This is a common error which could inadvertently cause damage to both the charger and the forklift. Furthermore, it is really important that the amperage of the battery should match that of the charger.
Do not ever allow the battery to completely discharge or to deep discharge. This will 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 in order to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to start.