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 many work applications that run more than one 8 hour shift. The fast charging choice has become a really popular alternative to traditional charging and since its evolution; a lot of businesses have chosen to make the switch.
What Are the Advantages of Fast Charging?
Less Charging Time
It may take a standard charger to charge a battery from 20% charged to 100% charged in approximately 8 hours. Fast charging can now accomplish this same charging in roughly an hour to an hour and 30 minutes! Numerous businesses utilize scheduled lunch and break times to accomplish this important task.
Easier Refills
The fast charge batteries will usually need a single-point watering system. This system means that users do not need 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 close to the center cell so as 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 lead to an undercharged battery. There are some specific fast charge brands of batteries that use inter-cell connectors, extra thick posts and copper inserts in order to increase conductivity and decrease heat generation 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 productivity increase greatly since the fast charge battery system was developed. Before, businesses used to need more than one machinery when they were operating around the clock; nowadays they can save a lot of money and utilize one lift truck twice as much in a day with by using the fast charging batteries.