How Long Does a Forklift Battery Really Last?
To be able to make certain that valuable units of electric forklift batteries would last, you must perform proper care and maintenance. These industrial grade batteries are really heavy, expensive and big. The more efficient the battery, the more productive your equipment operators could be. Extending the battery life span is a top priority, not only because of the replacement cost, but also because of the expense of down time associated with battery problems.
Charging Cycles
Forklift batteries must be recharged just when they are at least 80 percent discharged. The discharge rate differs depending upon different things like the number of shifts being worked, the number of hours the forklift is being utilized, and the average weight of loads. For busy operations, nightly charging may be needed. Nevertheless, don't forget that charging a battery too often would wear the battery a lot faster.
Life Span
Usually, 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 would last roughly five years. Nonetheless, this is an average estimate. The life span of the battery could be extended a lot beyond the average 1,500 charge cycles with correct maintenance.
Deep Discharge
A forklift battery must never be allowed to become totally discharged. Not only can damage to the battery be caused by what is called "deep discharge", the forklift's electrical components and motor can also sustain damage. This is because the damaged battery could alter the amount of power being supplied to the forklift. The ability of the charger to communicate properly with the battery can also be compromised. In a worst-case scenario, the compromised charger would be unable to fully charge the battery, resulting in a destructive cycle of incomplete charges. A service technician might be required to return the charger to good working condition.