Forklift Battery Charging and Safe Installation
Forklift batteries are fairly large and are really pricey pieces of machinery. They weigh thousands of pounds. The task of charging and installation of these batteries is something which should be really planned out ahead of time so as to make sure that these procedures could be completed properly and safely. Maintaining a sound charging method and correct handling could majorly increase the usual lifespan of a battery.
Standard Charging
It is recommended that the battery is not connected to the charger until it is at or lower than 20 percent capacity. By charging the battery when it is more than 20%, the lifespan of the battery could actually be shortened. On around every 5th charge cycle, the charger must be set on the weekend or equalize setting, depending on what kind of charger you are using.
The charging cycle must never be interrupted. As soon as the charge cycle is done, you must avoid using the battery for several hours. By practicing these procedures, you would be able to help make sure that you get the maximum battery performance available.
Charger Maintenance
Make sure the charger is turned off prior to hooking up the battery to the charger. You then can connect the charger to the battery. This is a common error that can accidentally cause damage to both the charger and the forklift. Also, it is very important that the battery amperage should match that of the charger.
The battery must never be allowed to completely discharge or deep discharge. This would ultimately shorten the lift of the battery and could even prevent the charger from being able to activate. 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 will need to be called to be able to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to begin.