How Long Does a Forklift Battery Really Last?
Batteries of electric forklifts are expensive units that need correct care and maintenance to ensure a long life. These industrial grade batteries are large, heavy and expensive. The more efficient the battery, the more effective your machine operators could be. Extending the life span of the battery is truly a main concern, not only because of the cost of replacement, but also because of the cost of down time associated with battery problems.
Charging Cycles
Forklift batteries must be recharged just when they are at least 80 percent discharged. The rate of discharge varies depending on various things like for instance the average weight of loads, the number of shifts being worked and the number of hours the forklift is being utilized. For busy operations, charging every night might be required. Nonetheless, don't forget that charging a battery too often will wear the battery a lot faster.
Life Span
Usually, a new forklift battery would last at least 1,500 charge cycles. Hence, if the forklift battery is being charged every day, the battery will last around five years. Nevertheless, this is an average estimate. The battery life span can be extended significantly beyond the average 1,500 charge cycles with correct maintenance.
Deep Discharge
A forklift battery should never be allowed to become completely discharged. Not only can damage to the battery result from what is called "deep discharge", the electrical components and motor of the forklift could sustain damage as well. This is because the damaged battery could change 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 battery charger would be unable to charge the battery completely, resulting in a destructive cycle of incomplete charges. A service technician might be required to return the charger to proper working condition.