How Long Does a Forklift Battery Really Last?
To make certain that valuable units of electric forklift batteries would last, you must carry out proper care and maintenance. These industrial grade batteries are heavy, costly and big. If the battery is more efficient, the more productive your equipment operators can be. Extending the battery life span is really a main concern, not just because of the cost of replacement, but also because of the cost of down time associated with battery problems.
Charging Cycles
Keep in mind that you can only recharge forklift batteries when they are at least 80 percent discharged. The discharge rate varies depending on different factors like how many hours the forklift is being utilized, the average load weight and the number of shifts being worked. For busy operations, charging nightly may be needed. Nevertheless, don't forget that charging a battery very often would wear the battery more quickly.
Life Span
Typically, a brand new forklift battery would last at least 1,500 charge cycles. Thus, if the forklift battery is being charged every day, the battery will last around five years. Nonetheless, this is an average estimation. The life span of the battery could be extended significantly beyond the average 1,500 charge cycles with proper 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 called "deep discharge", the forklift's electrical parts and motor can sustain damage also. 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 forklift battery can be compromised as well. In a worst-case scenario, the compromised charger could not completely charge the battery, leading to a destructive cycle of incomplete charges. A service technician might be required to return the battery charger to good working order.