Forklift Battery Safe Installation and Charging
Lift truck batteries are fairly large and are extremely costly pieces of equipment. They weigh thousands of pounds. The job of charging and installing these batteries is something which will have to be planned out ahead of time in order to make certain that these methods can be completed properly and safely. Maintaining proper handling and a sound charging method could really increase the battery's regular life span.
Standard Charging
It is recommended that the battery is not connected to the charger until it is at or less than 20 percent capacity. By charging the battery when it is more than 20%, the battery's lifespan can really be shortened. On around each 5th charge cycle, the charger must be set on the equalize or weekend setting, depending on which model of charger you are using.
The cycle of charging must not get interrupted. You should avoid using the battery for some hours when the charge cycle is complete. By practicing these methods, you can help make certain 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 error that can inadvertently cause damage to both the charger and the forklift. It is also very important that the battery amperage should match that of the charger.
The battery should 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 battery activity, it would not start the charge cycle. If this situation occurs, a technician should be called to be able to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to start.