How Long Does a Forklift Battery Actually Last?
Batteries of electric forklifts are expensive units which require proper care and maintenance to be able to ensure a long life. These industrial grade batteries are large, heavy and costly. If the battery is more efficient, the more effective your equipment operators could be. Extending the battery life span is really a top priority, not only because of the replacement cost, but also because of the expense of down time connected with battery problems.
Charging Cycles
batteries of forklifts must be recharged just when they are at least 80% discharged. The discharge rate varies depending upon different factors like for instance the number of shifts being worked, the number of hours the forklift is being operated, and the average weight of loads. For busy operations, charging nightly may be required. Nevertheless, keep in mind that charging a battery very frequently will wear the battery more quickly.
Life Span
Usually, a brand new forklift battery would last at least 1,500 charge cycles. Thus, if the battery is being charged daily, the battery would last about five years. However, 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 sure that the forklift battery is never discharged fully. Not only can damage to the battery result from what is known as a "deep discharge", the electrical components and motor of the forklift could 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 could also be compromised. In a worst-case scenario, the compromised charger can not fully charge the forklift battery, resulting in a destructive cycle of incomplete charges. A service technician might be required to return the battery charger to good working condition.