Forklift Battery Safe Installation and Charging
Lift truck batteries are quite large and are extremely expensive pieces of machinery. They weigh thousands of pounds. The task of installing and charging these batteries is something that would need to be planned out ahead of time in order to make sure that these methods can be done properly and safely. Maintaining a sound charging procedure and proper handling could majorly increase the battery's standard life span.
Standard Charging
It is essential not to connect the battery to the charger until it is at 20 percent capacity or lower. By charging the battery when it is more than 20 percent, the battery's lifespan could really be shortened. On about each 5th charge cycle, the charger needs to be set on the equalize or weekend setting, depending on which model of charger you are utilizing.
The charging cycle should never be interrupted. As soon as the charge cycle is done, you should avoid utilizing the battery for a few hours. By practicing these methods, you can 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 forklift and the charger. It is also very important that the amperage of the battery must match that of the charger.
Do not ever allow the battery to completely discharge or to deep discharge. This would shorten the battery life greatly and can 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 begin.