Forklift Battery Charging and Safe Installation
Lift truck batteries are quite big and are very expensive pieces of machines. They weigh thousands of pounds. The job of charging and installing these batteries is something that must be really planned out in advanced in order to make certain that these methods can be done correctly and safely. Maintaining correct handling and a sound charging method could really increase the standard 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 less. By charging the battery when it is more than 20%, the battery's lifespan can really be shortened. On roughly each 5th charge cycle, the charger needs to be set on the weekend or equalize setting, depending on what kind of charger you are using.
The charging cycle should never be interrupted. As soon as the charge cycle is done, you should avoid using the battery for some hours. By practicing these procedures, you could help ensure that you get the maximum battery performance available.
Charger Maintenance
Make certain the charger is turned off prior to hooking up the battery to the charger. You then could connect the charger to the battery. This is a common mistake which can inadvertently cause damage to both the forklift and the charger. What's more, it is very important that the amperage of the battery must match that of the charger.
Do not ever allow the battery to deep discharge or completely discharge. This would shorten the battery life significantly and could 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 will need to be called to be able to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to start.