How To Get More From Electric Forklifts

• Overheating and potential failure of control panel components such as transistors, diodes and contactors
• High current demands that lead to worn traction motor parts
• Reduced battery run time
• A stalled electric motor and blown main traction fuse
• Repairs, and downtime, that aren’t covered by warranties

Remember, damage to a battery-powered forklift’s systems doesn’t require repeated abuse; it can occur almost immediately. For example, if an operator stalls the drive motor when pushing against a stubborn or immovable object, the heat created may go beyond critical levels in a few seconds. You may end up with an expensive repair job.

3. MAKE THE ELECTRICS FIT THE OPERATOR AND JOB

Some, newer electric lift trucks however, allow you to customize each forklift to your operation and operator. This programmable performance profiling in the control panel provides a means to balance production and with company policies, (e.g., maximum travel speed), in your facility. The ability to customize drive and hydraulic settings based on the application also allows you to adapt to individual operators’ preferences.

ELECTRIC FORKLIFT MAINTENANCE TIPS

Battery-powered forklifts typically require less extensive planned maintenance attention than engine-powered forklifts.  This means over their useful life, maintenance costs are usually less and you’ll find electric forklifts comparatively require less maintenance than their engine-powered counterparts. There are some tips to help you get better life from electric trucks, however.

1. MAINTAIN BATTERY WATER LEVEL

If operators experience reduced run times, hot batteries and tray-to-ground shorts, poor watering procedures may be causing the problems.

You want to avoid under watering the battery; this causes heat and shorter life. Overwatering dilutes the acid in the electrolyte and reduces battery capacity.

Check water level following a charge cycle and then add water when the batteries are cool.  You might want to set up a watering schedule based on your fleet’s needs. To do so, check the individual cell water heights weekly and note the number of days it takes for water levels to drop to the splashguards. Use this data to set up your watering schedule (weekly, biweekly or monthly). Once you’ve established a proper watering interval, you can add calendars to the front of batteries and mark off when they’ve been watered.

2. CHARGE BATTERIES CORRECTLY 

Make sure those who hook up chargers are trained in what type of chargers to use and where to connect them. Untrained employees could hook up the charger to the truck and not the battery; leaving you with an uncharged battery and possibly causing machine damage.

3. PAY ATTENTION TO CABLES 

Every 6 months regular maintenance for electric forklift batteries should include an inspection of the cable and power connections. If you see signs of frayed wires, cuts or other damage, get those cables or connectors repaired immediately.

It’s a good idea to also check the chargers every six months or yearly. This way you can avoid possible safety hazards and poor recharging.

If you have questions about these electric forklift maintenance tips, or want help in setting up a battery watering and maintenance schedule, contact us for help.

IS AN ELECTRIC FORKLIFT RIGHT FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

Reduced emissions, reduced operating costs and the ability to run up to two shifts on one battery charge in many applications – the benefits of electric forklifts are clear.

Considering making the switch to electric lift trucks? Simply provide a few details to us on your current forklift fleet and application, and we’ll identify the most cost-efficient lift truck solution for your application. Contact us today to get started!