Forklift Battery

Forklifts Battery
By Thomas Morva

Forklift battery are electrical storage devices that convert chemical energy into electricity by using a galvanic cell. A galvanic cell is a simple device consisting of two electrodes, one negative and one positive, and an electrolyte solution. The most common batteries used in forklifts are lead-acid batteries that offer the best price to power ratio.

Forklifts need a constant supply of power to work properly. They use deep cycle industrial grade battery that can be discharged up to 80% on a regular basis. The main chemicals used in these are Sulfuric acid and water. At full charge, its 30% acid and 70% water.

The most important component used in these battery are thick metal plates measuring more than 1/4", which is seven times the thickness of normal automotive batteries (1/25?). Thicker plates mean longer life, as it takes longer for the acid to corrode the plates. Most industrial deep cycle batteries use Lead-Antimony plates that increase plate life and strength. These plates also result in gassing and water loss. It is important to monitor the water level on a regular basis. The acid used in these batteries is very corrosive and it is important to wear gloves while handling them.

These battery are not 100% efficient. Stored energy is lost due to heat and chemical reactions during charging and discharging. Also the amount of electricity required to charge the batteries is always more than the amount discharged. The efficiency of a typical lead acid deep cycle battery varies between 85% and 95%.

Forklifts are used in every type of industry, as they help in saving costs and improve efficiency. The battery used in these should be checked regularly and other guidelines should be followed to increase the life of this battery. The life cycle of this battery lies between 10 to 20+ years depending on usage, care and make.