Forklift Battery Safe Installation and Charging
Batteries utilized in forklifts are expensive pieces of equipment which are quite big weighing in the thousands of pounds. The task of charging and installing these batteries is something which must be really planned out ahead of time in order to make sure that these methods could be done properly and safely. Maintaining proper handling and a sound charging procedure could 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%, the battery's lifespan could actually be shortened. On around each 5th charge cycle, the charger must be set on the weekend or equalize setting, depending on which model of charger you are using.
The cycle of charging should not get interrupted. You must avoid using the battery for several hours when the charge cycle is complete. By practicing these methods, you will be able to help make certain 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 forklift. This is a common error which can inadvertently cause damage to both the charger and the forklift. It is also really 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 would 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 will not start the charge cycle. If this situation occurs, a technician will need to be called to be able to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to begin.