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 operations which run more than one 8 hour shift. The fast charging choice has become an extremely common option to conventional charging and since its development; numerous businesses have chosen to make the switch.
What Are the Benefits of Fast Charging?
Less Charging Time
It may take a standard charger to charge a battery from 20% charged to 100% charged in around 8 hours. Fast charging can now accomplish this same charging in roughly an hour to an hour and a half! Many businesses utilize scheduled lunch and break times to accomplish this vital task.
Easier Refills
The fast charge batteries would usually need a single-point watering system. This system means that users do not have to remove the battery from the forklift in order to water it.
Temperature-Sensitive Design
These new fast charge batteries have a thermistor placed near the center cell so as to monitor temperature. When the temperature gets to a particular level, the charge rate is reduced and occasionally even stopped so as to make sure the battery does not overheat. Unfortunately, this method can lead to an undercharged battery. There are some specific fast charge brands of batteries that utilize inter-cell connectors, extra thick posts and copper inserts so as 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 productivity of these machinery has been significantly better since the development of the fast charge battery system. Before, companies used to require more than one machine when they were operating around the clock; now they can use one forklift twice as much in a day and save much money by utilizing the fast charging batteries.