Consider the Fast Charge Option
When it comes to recharging the battery of a forklift, there is an old rule of thumb that goes something like this: utilize the battery for a shift of around 8 hours, charge it for 8 hours and afterward let it cool and rest for another 8 hours. This formula has changed for a lot of work applications which run more than one 8 hour shift. The fast charging alternative has become an extremely popular alternative to traditional charging and ever since its evolution; a lot of companies have chosen to make the switch.
What Are the Benefits of Fast Charging?
Less Charging Time
It can take a typical charger to charge a battery from 20% charged to 100% charged in around 8 hours. Fast charging can now accomplish this same charging in about an hour to an hour and 30 minutes! Many businesses use scheduled break and lunch times to complete this vital task.
Easier Refills
Frequently, fast charge batteries also require a single-point watering system. This system means that users do not have to remove the battery from the forklift to be able to water it.
Temperature-Sensitive Design
These new fast charge batteries have a thermistor placed next to the center cell in order to monitor temperature. Once the temperature gets to a specific level, the charge rate is reduced and occasionally even stopped so as to make sure the battery does not overheat. Unfortunately, this method could lead to an undercharged battery. There are several particular fast charge battery brands 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 period of time.
These machines have seen their overall productivity increase greatly since the fast charge battery system was developed. Before, businesses used to require more than one machine when they were operating around the clock; nowadays they could save much money and utilize one forklift twice as much in a day with by using the fast charging batteries.