Forklift Battery Charging and Safe Installation
Lift truck batteries are fairly large and are extremely pricey pieces of machinery. They weigh thousands of pounds. The job of charging and installing these batteries is something which must be really planned out ahead of time in order to make certain that these procedures are able to be done correctly and safely. Maintaining a sound charging procedure and proper handling can really increase the regular lifespan of a battery.
Standard Charging
It is essential not to connect the battery to the charger until it is at 20 percent capacity or lower. By charging the battery when it is higher than 20 percent, the battery's lifespan can actually be shortened. On approximately every 5th charge cycle, the charger must be set on the weekend or equalize setting, depending on which model of charger you are using.
The charging cycle must never be interrupted. As soon as the charge cycle is complete, you should avoid using the battery for a few hours. By practicing these procedures, 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 mistake that could inadvertently cause damage to both the forklift and the charger. What's more, it is really important that the amperage of the battery should match that of the charger.
Do not ever allow the battery to deep discharge or completely discharge. This would shorten the battery life greatly and can even prevent the charger from being able to activate. If the battery charger reads that there is no activity in the battery, it will not start the charge cycle. If this situation happens, a technician must be called in order to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to begin.