Forklift Battery Charging and Safe Installation
Batteries utilized in forklifts are costly pieces of equipment that are fairly large weighing in the thousands of pounds. The job of charging and installing these batteries is something which must be really planned out ahead of time in order to make certain that these procedures can be completed safely and properly. Maintaining proper handling and a sound charging procedure could majorly increase the battery's standard life span.
Standard Charging
It is vital not to connect the battery to the charger until it is at 20% capacity or lower. By charging the battery when it is more than 20 percent, the battery's lifespan can really be shortened. On about each 5th charge cycle, the charger needs to be set on the equalize or weekend setting, depending on which type of charger you are utilizing.
The cycle of charging must not get interrupted. You should avoid utilizing the battery for a few hours when the charge cycle is complete. By practicing these procedures, you will be able to help make sure that you get the maximum battery performance available.
Charger Maintenance
Be sure 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 forklift. This is a common error that can accidentally cause damage to both the charger and the forklift. It is also very vital 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 greatly and may 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 in order to re-set the charger prior to charge being able to begin.