9 Best Practices For Less Forklift Downtime
Forklifts have changed dramatically over the years, but the basics of good fleet management haven’t changed nearly as much as the forklifts themselves. The tenets remain
With a standard battery and charger, reenergizing a battery from a 20 percent to a 100 percent state of charge normally takes about eight hours. Fast charging lasts about an hour to an hour and a half and is usually completed during scheduled breaks or lunch times.
On a forklift, fast battery charging means delivering 40 amps or more per 100-ampere hours of battery capacity, or a 40 percent start rate. This compares to standard charge rates in the 16-20 percent range.
To accommodate fast chargers, lift truck battery manufacturers usually modify their existing standard batteries by adding extra intercell connectors on top to carry the increased current. Depending on the level of current, you may require two sets of cables and connectors for charging purposes.
Fast charge batteries also generally require a single-point watering system – which means users don’t have to remove the battery from the forklift to water it.
Fast charge batteries have a thermistor placed near the center cell to monitor temperature. When the temperature reaches a certain level, the charge rate is reduced or even stopped to keep the battery from overheating. This could result in an undercharged battery.
Some brands of fast charge batteries use copper inserts and extra thick posts and intercell connectors to increase conductivity and decrease heat generation due to the higher current. This ensures the battery will accept a higher charge rate for a longer time.
Fast charging systems are suited for two- and three-shift operations in manufacturing, distribution and fast-paced applications like ground support at airports. They allow multi-shift operations to run on one battery per forklift and produce a quick return on investment — usually less than one year.
If you are considering fast charging for your forklift fleet, Tri-Lift NJ can help you find battery and charger for your application.
No matter which recharging system you use, we can help you work out a schedule and process to make the most out of your forklift truck and warehouse products. For more information, contact Tri-Lift NJ today.
Forklifts have changed dramatically over the years, but the basics of good fleet management haven’t changed nearly as much as the forklifts themselves. The tenets remain
Reliability is probably the one thing fleet managers want most. Warehouses need a forklift fleet you can rely on, and the best fleet managers know
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