Forklift Battery Safe Installation and Charging
Batteries used in forklifts are costly pieces of equipment that are quite big weighing in the thousands of pounds. The job of charging and installation of these batteries is something that must be planned out in advanced in order to make sure that these methods can be completed safely and correctly. Maintaining proper handling and a sound charging procedure could really increase the battery's usual life span.
Standard Charging
It is vital not to connect the battery to the charger until it is at 20 percent capacity or less. By charging the battery when it is higher than 20%, the lifespan of the battery could really be shortened. On approximately each 5th charge cycle, the charger must be set on the equalize or weekend setting, depending on which model of charger you are utilizing.
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 procedures, you could 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 forklift. This is a common error which could inadvertently cause damage to both the forklift and the charger. It is also very vital that the amperage of the battery must 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 might even prevent the charger from being able to activate. If the battery charger reads that there is no battery activity, it would not start the charge cycle. If this situation happens, a technician should be called in order to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to start.