Consider the Fast Charge Option
There is an old rule of thumb regarding recharging forklift batteries. It goes something like: use a battery for 8 hours, charge it for 8 hours and then finally, allow it to cool for 8 hours. This formula has changed for numerous work applications which run more than one 8 hour shift. The fast charging alternative has become a really popular option to conventional charging and since its evolution; numerous businesses have opted to make the switch.
What Are the Benefits of Fast Charging?
Less Charging Time
Where the typical battery and charger was concerned, re-energizing a battery from a 20% state of charge up to a complete 100% charge used to take roughly 8 hours. Fast charging could now accomplish this same charging in about an hour to an hour and a half! Numerous companies use scheduled lunch and break times to accomplish this vital task.
Easier Refills
Usually, fast charge batteries also need 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
There is a thermistor placed near the center cell on each new fast charge battery which helps it to monitor temperature. The charge rate is reduced and can sometimes stop when the temperatures get to a particular level. This is key so that the battery does not overheat. This process could unfortunately result in an undercharged battery. There are some specific fast charge battery brands which utilize extra thick posts, copper inserts and inter-cell connectors in order to increase conductivity and decrease heat generation due to the higher current. These features help to allow the battery to accept a higher charge rate for a longer period of time.
The overall production of these machines has been greatly enhanced ever since the development of the fast charge battery system. In the past, companies used to need more than one machinery when they were operating around the clock; now they can use one forklift twice as much in a day and save a lot of money by utilizing the fast charging batteries.