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 installing and charging these batteries is something which must be really planned out ahead of time so as to make certain that these procedures are able to be done safely and correctly. Maintaining a sound charging method and proper handling could really increase the battery's usual life span.
Standard Charging
It is recommended that the battery is not connected to the charger until it is at or lower than 20% capacity. By charging the battery when it is higher than 20%, the battery's lifespan can really be shortened. On around every 5th charge cycle, the charger must be set on the equalize or weekend setting, depending on what type of charger you are utilizing.
The charging cycle must never be interrupted. When the charge cycle is done, you should avoid utilizing the battery for some hours. By practicing these procedures, 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 which could inadvertently cause damage to both the charger and the forklift. It is also very important that the battery amperage must match that of the charger.
The battery should never be allowed to to deep discharge or to completely discharge. This will ultimately shorten the lift of the battery and can even prevent the charger from being able to activate. If the battery charger reads that there is no battery activity, it would not start the charge cycle. If this situation happens, a technician would need to be called in order to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to begin.