How Long Does a Forklift Battery Last?
Batteries of electric forklifts are expensive units that need correct maintenance and care to be able to guarantee a long life. These industrial grade batteries are large, heavy and costly. If the battery is more efficient, the more productive your machine operators could be. Extending the battery life span is truly a top priority, not only because of the replacement cost, but also because of the expense of down time connected with battery issues.
Charging Cycles
batteries of forklifts should be recharged only when they are at least 80 percent discharged. The rate of discharge differs depending upon different things like for example the number of shifts being worked, the number of hours the forklift is being utilized, and the average weight of loads. For busy operations, charging nightly might be needed. Nonetheless, don't forget that charging a battery too often would wear the battery more quickly.
Life Span
Usually, a brand new forklift battery would last at least 1,500 charge cycles. Therefore, if the forklift battery is being charged daily, the battery would last roughly five years. Nevertheless, this is an average estimate. The life of the battery could be extended significantly beyond the average 1,500 charge cycles with proper maintenance.
Deep Discharge
A battery of the forklift must never be allowed to become completely discharged. Not only could damage to the battery result from what is referred to as a "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 could also be compromised. In a worst-case scenario, the compromised charger would be unable to charge the forklift battery completely, leading to a destructive cycle of incomplete charges. A service technician might be required to return the battery charger to good working condition.