Consider the Fast Charge Option
There is an old rule of thumb about recharging forklift batteries. It goes something like: utilize a battery for 8 hours, charge it for 8 hours and then lastly, let it cool for 8 hours. This formula has changed for many work operations that run more than one 8 hour shift. The fast charging alternative has become a really popular alternative to traditional charging and since its development; many businesses have chosen to make the switch.
What Are the Benefits of Fast Charging?
Less Charging Time
Where the average charger and battery was concerned, re-energizing a battery from a 20% state of charge up to a complete 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! Numerous companies use scheduled break and lunch times to complete this important job.
Easier Refills
Frequently, fast charge batteries also need a single-point watering system. This system means that users do not have to remove the battery from the lift truck to be able to water it.
Temperature-Sensitive Design
These new fast charge batteries have a thermistor placed near the center cell in order to monitor temperature. Once the temperature gets to a particular level, the charge rate is reduced and occasionally even stopped in order to make sure the battery does not overheat. Unfortunately, this process could result in an undercharged battery. There are some particular fast charge battery brands which utilize inter-cell connectors, extra thick posts and copper inserts so as to decrease heat generation and increase conductivity 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 equipment have seen their overall production increase significantly ever since the fast charge battery system was developed. Before, businesses used to require more than one equipment when they were operating around the clock; now they can utilize one forklift twice as much in a day and save a lot of money by using the fast charging batteries.