How Long Does a Forklift Battery Truly Last?
To make sure that valuable units of electric forklift batteries would have long life, you must perform correct care and maintenance. These industrial grade batteries are expensive, large and heavy. The more efficient the battery, the more productive your equipment operators could be. Extending the life span of the battery is a top priority, not only because of the cost of replacement, but also because of the expense of down time connected with battery problems.
Charging Cycles
batteries of forklifts must be recharged only when they are at least 80 percent discharged. The rate of discharge differs depending on various things such as how many hours the forklift is being used, the average weight of loads and the number of shifts being worked. For busy operations, charging nightly might be needed. However, remember that charging a battery very often would wear the battery more quickly.
Life Span
Typically, a new forklift battery would last at least 1,500 charge cycles. Therefore, if the forklift battery is being charged daily, the battery would last around five years. Nonetheless, this is an average estimation. The life span of the battery can be extended significantly beyond the average 1,500 charge cycles with correct maintenance.
Deep Discharge
Make certain that the battery of the forklift is never discharged fully. Not only can damage to the battery be caused by what is referred to as a "deep discharge", the forklift's electrical parts and motor could also sustain damage. This is because the damaged battery could alter the amount of power being supplied to the forklift. The ability of the battery charger to properly communicate with the battery can also be compromised. In a worst-case scenario, the compromised battery charger can not completely charge the battery, resulting in a destructive cycle of incomplete charges. A service technician might be required to return the battery charger to proper working order.