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 task of charging and installing these batteries is something that will need to be really planned out ahead of time in order to make sure that these procedures are able to be done safely and properly. Maintaining a sound charging procedure and correct handling can really increase the regular lifespan of a battery.
Standard Charging
It is important 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 could really be shortened. On roughly each 5th charge cycle, the charger should be set on the weekend or equalize setting, depending on what model of charger you are using.
The cycle of charging should not get interrupted. You must avoid using the battery for several hours once the charge cycle is complete. By practicing these procedures, you will be able to help ensure that you get the maximum battery performance available.
Charger Maintenance
Make certain the charger is turned off before hooking up the battery to the charger. You then can connect the charger to the battery. This is a common error which can inadvertently cause damage to both the charger and the forklift. Also, it is very vital that the battery amperage must match that of the charger.
The battery should never be allowed to to deep discharge or to completely 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 activity in the battery, it will not start the charge cycle. If this situation occurs, a technician should be called in order to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to begin.