Forklift Battery Safe Installation and Charging
Lift truck batteries are fairly large and are really expensive pieces of equipment. They weigh thousands of pounds. The task of installing and charging these batteries is something which should be really planned out in advanced in order to make sure that these procedures can be done safely and correctly. Maintaining a sound charging procedure and proper handling can really increase the battery's regular life span.
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 really be shortened. On about each 5th charge cycle, the charger needs to be set on the equalize or weekend setting, depending on what model of charger you are using.
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 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 when 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 mistake that could accidentally cause damage to both the charger and the forklift. It is also very essential that the battery amperage must match that of the charger.
The battery should never be allowed to completely discharge or deep 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 battery activity, it would not start the charge cycle. If this situation happens, a technician will have to be called in order to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to start.