How Long Does a Forklift Battery Really Last?
Batteries of electric forklifts are expensive units which require correct care and maintenance to be able to ensure a long life. These industrial grade batteries are big, heavy and expensive. The more efficient the battery, the more effective your equipment operators can be. Extending the life span of the battery is a main concern, not only because of the cost of replacement, but also because of the cost of down time connected with battery issues.
Charging Cycles
batteries of forklifts should be recharged just when they are at least 80% discharged. The discharge rate differs depending upon various factors like the number of hours the forklift is being utilized, the average load weight and the number of shifts being worked. For busy operations, nightly charging may be needed. Nevertheless, remember that charging a battery too often would wear the battery more quickly.
Life Span
New forklift batteries are normally made to last 1,500 charge cycles at least. Therefore, if the forklift battery is being charged every day, the battery will last about five years. Nevertheless, this is an average estimation. The battery life span can be extended a lot beyond the average 1,500 charge cycles with correct maintenance.
Deep Discharge
A battery of the forklift should never be allowed to become completely discharged. Not only can damage to the battery result from what is called "deep discharge", the forklift's electrical parts and motor could sustain damage as well. This is because the battery which is damaged can alter the amount of power being supplied to the forklift. The ability of the battery charger to communicate properly with the battery can be compromised as well. In a worst-case scenario, the compromised charger can not charge the forklift battery completely, leading to a destructive cycle of incomplete charges. A service technician might be required to return the battery charger to proper working order.