Forklift Battery Charging and Safe Installation
Lift truck batteries are quite big and are extremely costly pieces of machines. They weigh thousands of pounds. The job of installing and charging these batteries is something which would have to be planned out ahead of time in order to make certain that these methods can be completed safely and correctly. Maintaining a sound charging method and proper handling could really increase the standard lifespan of a battery.
Standard Charging
It is suggested 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 percent, the lifespan of the battery can really be shortened. On around each 5th charge cycle, the charger should be set on the equalize or weekend setting, depending on what type of charger you are utilizing.
The cycle of charging must not get interrupted. You should avoid utilizing the battery for some hours when the charge cycle is complete. By practicing these procedures, you would be able to help ensure that you get the maximum battery performance available.
Charger Maintenance
Be certain 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 which could inadvertently cause damage to both the forklift and the charger. It is also very vital 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 might 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 must be called in order to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to start.