How Long Does a Forklift Battery Last?
Electric forklifts batteries are expensive units that require correct maintenance and care to be able to ensure a long life. These industrial grade batteries are expensive, large and heavy. If the battery is more efficient, the more effective your machine 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 cost of down time connected with battery issues.
Charging Cycles
Bear in mind that you can only recharge batteries of forklifts when they are at least 80% discharged. The rate of discharge varies depending upon various things such as the average load weight, the number of shifts being worked and the number of hours the forklift is being utilized. For busy operations, nightly charging may be needed. Nevertheless, don't forget that charging a battery too frequently will wear the battery more quickly.
Life Span
Typically, a brand new forklift battery will last at least 1,500 charge cycles. Therefore, if the forklift battery is being charged on a daily basis, the battery will last around five years. Nevertheless, this is an average estimation. The battery life span 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 totally discharged. Not only could damage to the battery be caused by what is referred to as a "deep discharge", the electrical parts and motor of the forklift can also sustain damage. This is because the battery which is damaged could alter the amount of power being supplied to the forklift. The ability of the charger to properly communicate with the battery can also be compromised. In a worst-case scenario, the compromised charger can not completely charge the forklift battery, leading to a destructive cycle of incomplete charges. A service technician may be needed to return the battery charger to good working order.