Forklift Battery Charging and Safe Installation
Lift truck batteries are quite big and are really pricey pieces of equipment. They weigh thousands of pounds. The job of charging and installing these batteries is something that would have to be planned out in advanced so as to make certain that these procedures could be done properly and safely. Maintaining a sound charging method and correct 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 more than 20%, the lifespan of the battery could really be shortened. On roughly each 5th charge cycle, the charger should be set on the equalize or weekend setting, depending on what model of charger you are using.
The charging cycle must never be interrupted. As soon as the charge cycle is done, you should avoid using the battery for several hours. By practicing these methods, you would be able to help ensure that you get the maximum battery performance available.
Charger Maintenance
Be sure 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 forklift and the charger. It is also really important 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 will 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 would not start the charge cycle. If this situation occurs, a technician must be called to be able to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to start.