Consider the Fast Charge Option
Regarding the recharging the forklift battery, there is an old rule of thumb that goes something like this: use the battery for a shift of around 8 hours, charge it for 8 hours and after that let it rest and cool for another 8 hours. This formula has changed for numerous work operations which run more than one 8 hour shift. The fast charging option has become a very common alternative to traditional charging and since its development; a lot of companies have chosen to make the switch.
What Are the Advantages of Fast Charging?
Less Charging Time
It may take a typical charger to charge a battery from 20% charged to 100% charged in around 8 hours. Fast charging could now accomplish this same charging in approximately an hour to an hour and a half! A lot of companies utilize scheduled lunch and break times to accomplish this vital task.
Easier Refills
Frequently, fast charge batteries also require a single-point watering system. This system means that users do not require removing the battery from the lift truck in order to water it.
Temperature-Sensitive Design
There is a thermistor placed next to the center cell on each new fast charge battery that helps it to monitor temperature. The charge rate is reduced and can sometimes stop once the temperatures get to a particular level. This is key so that the battery does not overheat. This method could unfortunately result in an undercharged battery. There are several specific fast charge battery brands that utilize extra thick posts, copper inserts and inter-cell connectors in order to increase conductivity and decrease heat generation because of the higher current. These features help to enable the battery to accept a higher charge rate for a longer period of time.
These machines have seen their overall production increase significantly ever since the fast charge battery system was created. Before, companies used to require more than one equipment when they were operating around the clock; now they could use one lift truck twice as much in a day and save a lot of money by utilizing the fast charging batteries.