How Long Does a Forklift Battery Last?
To make sure that expensive units of electric forklift batteries will last, you should perform proper maintenance and care. These industrial grade batteries are big, heavy and costly. If the battery is more efficient, the more productive your equipment operators could be. Extending the battery life span is a main concern, not only because of the cost of replacement, but also because of the expense of down time associated with battery problems.
Charging Cycles
Forklift batteries should be recharged just when they are at least 80% discharged. The rate of discharge differs depending on different factors such as the number of shifts being worked, the number of hours the forklift is being operated, and the average weight of loads. For busy operations, nightly charging may be needed. However, remember that charging a battery too frequently will wear the battery a lot faster.
Life Span
Commonly, a new forklift battery would last at least 1,500 charge cycles. Thus, if the battery is being charged on a daily basis, the battery would last about five years. However, this is an average estimate. The life span of the battery could be extended significantly beyond the average 1,500 charge cycles with correct maintenance.
Deep Discharge
A battery of the forklift should never be allowed to become totally discharged. Not only could damage to the battery be caused by what is called "deep discharge", the forklift's electrical components and motor can sustain damage as well. This is because the battery that is damaged can alter the amount of power being supplied to the forklift. The ability of the charger to properly communicate with the battery can be compromised also. In a worst-case scenario, the compromised battery charger would be unable to charge the forklift battery fully, causing a destructive cycle of incomplete charges. A service technician may be needed to return the charger to good working condition.