Consider the Fast Charge Option
There is an old rule of thumb about recharging batteries of forklifts. It goes something like: use a battery for 8 hours, charge it for 8 hours and then finally, let it cool for 8 hours. This formula has changed for a lot of work operations that run more than one 8 hour shift. The fast charging alternative has become a really common option to traditional charging and ever since its development; many businesses have opted to make the switch.
What Are the Advantages of Fast Charging?
Less Charging Time
Where the standard battery and charger was concerned, re-energizing a battery from a 20% state of charge up to a full 100% charge used to take around 8 hours. Fast charging can now accomplish this same charging in about an hour to an hour and 30 minutes! Many companies use scheduled lunch and break times to accomplish this vital task.
Easier Refills
Usually, fast charge batteries also require a single-point watering system. This system means that users do not require removing the battery from the forklift to be able to water it.
Temperature-Sensitive Design
These new fast charge batteries have a thermistor placed close to the center cell so as to monitor temperature. When the temperature gets to a specific level, the charge rate is reduced and sometimes even stopped in order to make sure the battery does not overheat. This method can unfortunately lead to an undercharged battery. There are some specific fast charge brands of batteries which utilize inter-cell connectors, extra thick posts and copper inserts so as to increase conductivity and reduce heat generation due to the higher current. These features help to allow the battery to accept a higher charge rate for a longer time period.
These machines have seen their overall productivity increase greatly since the fast charge battery system was developed. In the past, companies used to need more than one equipment when they were operating around the clock; now they can save much money and utilize one forklift twice as much in a day with by using the fast charging batteries.