HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT FORKLIFT BATTERY
Choosing industrial batteries can be complicated — there are just so many options that it can be difficult to decide which factors are most important: Ah capacity, chemistry, charging speed, cycle life, brand, price, etc. If you already know what to expect of your battery, go ahead and select lithium forklift batteries using the tool above to see available options.
Read this guide if you’d like to learn which requirements of your material handling operations are crucial for choosing the right forklift battery.
I. START WITH THE MAKE AND MODEL OF YOUR FORKLIFTS AND LIFT TRUCK SPECS
Your choice of power source for the equipment is defined primarily by the forklift’s technical specifications. As the users of diesel- or propane-powered Class 4 and 5 sit-down forklifts continue to convert to Class 1 electric, more than half of lift trucks today are battery-powered. Durable, high-capacity Li-ion batteries have become available for even the most demanding applications handling heavy and bulky loads like steel, lumber, paper, and beverages.
The following are the main specs you need to look at to select lithium forklift batteries:
There are several standard types of battery by voltage (12V, 24V, 36V, 48V, 72V, 80V) and different capacity options (from 100Ah to 1000Ah and higher) available for various lift trucks models.
For example, a 24V 210Ah battery is typically used in 4,000-pound pallet jacks, and 80V 1050Ah would fit a counterbalanced sit-down forklift to handle loads up to 20K pounds.
The dimensions of a forklift’s battery compartment are often unique, so it is crucial to find a perfect and precise fit. Besides different battery sizes, it is also important to consider the cable connector type and its location on the battery and a truck.
II. Factor in the details of your material handling equipment application and your company policies
The battery’s performance must fit the actual use of the forklift or lift truck. Sometimes the same trucks are used in different ways (handling different loads, for example) in the same facility. In this case, you may need different types of batteries for them. Your corporate policies and standards may also be in play.
The heavier the load, the higher the lift, and the longer the route, the more battery capacity you will require to last the whole day. Take into consideration the average and maximum weight of the load, travel distance, height of the lift, and ramps. The most demanding applications, such as paper and packaging or food and beverage, where load weight can reach 15—20 thousand pounds, will require an 80V