Question: What is a forklift worth without a good forklift battery to power it? The answer: not much.
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Equipping your forklifts with the best battery is crucial for maintaining efficient operations. Not only can batteries make or break your warehouse operation – they also can take your business to the next level. That’s why we’ve consulted with our expert forklift team to find out which batteries reign supreme and answer questions such as:
“How much is a forklift battery?”
“Should I switch to a more expensive Lithium Ion Battery?
“What battery should I get if I’m looking to save money without sacrificing reliability?”
“How do I choose the right forklift battery for my needs?
“How long do forklift batteries last?”
“How does it take to charge a forklift battery?”
“How many volts is a forklift battery?”
“How much do forklift batteries cost?”
“How much do forklift batteries weigh and what is the optimum weight for your needs?”
“How much sulfuric acid is in a forklift battery?”
So let’s start with the basics. This article will walk you though the basic THINGS EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW before investing in batteries for your forklifts. Then we’ll break down the most popular battery types and look at them side by side.
First, let’s all get on the same page – there are so many technical specifications to look at before you purchase. I’m sure, like me, you’ve looked at one of those specification sheets and thought “which of these stats truly matter and which ones are just, well, fluff?” My answer to your very astute question: “It’s all important, BUT some specifications are more crucial to look at before other – especially when looking to compare batteries against each other. See below a list of our TOP 8 SPECS to consider before buying a battery.
⚡Voltage (V): Forklift batteries typically range from 12V to 80V, with higher voltages indicating more power for demanding applications.
⚙️Capacity (Ah): Amp-hour (Ah) rating determines how long a battery can operate on a single charge.
????Charging Speed: Faster charging allows for increased uptime and opportunity charging during breaks.
????Maintenance: Lead-acid batteries require regular watering and cleaning, while lithium-ion batteries are virtually maintenance-free.
????Lifespan: Lithium-ion batteries generally boast longer lifespans compared to lead-acid batteries.
????Cost: While upfront costs for lithium-ion batteries are higher, their lower maintenance needs and longer lifespan can lead to lower total cost of ownership (TCO) in the long run.
⚖️Weight: Lighter batteries can improve forklift performance and maneuverability.
⚗️Sulfuric Acid (Lead-Acid Only): Lead-acid batteries contain sulfuric acid, which necessitates proper handling and disposal due to environmental concerns.
Overall, Total Warehouse’s training can help you ensure safety, improve battery care practices, and maximize the lifespan and efficiency of your forklift batteries.
Now that we’re all on the same page, let’s get into the nitty gritty and what I like to lovingly call (The Great Battery Wars!) All of the battery listed below in our OFFICAL comparison chart are great options – but which option is best for your operation? I hope this section will assist you in answering that question. Keeping in mind the TOP 8 SPECS above, you can see how the battery brands below stack up against each other and make an educated decision before investing. In the section below, I’ll provide purchasing tips and share more details on our battery options including the Linde KBS lithium, Enersys, Triathlon, GNB Industrial Power/Stryten, and Hawker. Also keep in mind that all of the battery brands listed below are sold by Total warehouse – so I encourage you to reach out to us here after you’ve read this article – we’d be happy to go more in depth on the PROS & CONS of any of these battery brans + answer any additional questions you have so that you’re totally confident that you’ve made the right battery investment for your company.
Best Choice for Performance: Linde KBS Lithium Batteries – With their unmatched charging speeds, long lifespans, and minimal maintenance requirements, lithium-ion batteries are the clear winner for top performance. However, their higher upfront cost makes them a better fit for operations prioritizing maximum efficiency and productivity.
WHAT LINDE BATTERIES HAVE TO OFFER: Lithium batteries and chargers are the optimal solution for the energy efficiency and durability requirements of today’s material handling industry. Combining Linde lithium ion battery and Linde charger can increase energy yield by 30% compared to lead-acid batteries. With their robust performance, these forklift batteries ensure extended operational hours and fast recharging to enhance productivity in operations.
Overall Best Choice: This depends on your specific needs and priorities. If maximizing performance and efficiency is paramount, then Linde KBS Lithium Batteries are the way to go. However, for a budget-conscious option that delivers dependable power, then GNB Industrial Power/Stryker or Hawker Lead-Acid Batteries are a solid choice.
WHAT GNB INDUSTRIAL POWER HAS TO OFFER: Keeping your business moving is essential and having reliable power for your motive power equipment is critical. GNB Industrial Power offers a comprehensive portfolio of motive power batteries, performance management tools and chargers, including lithium technologies, for material handling, mining, railway, military and other applications.
Best Choice for Value: GNB Industrial Power/Stryker or Hawker Lead-Acid Batteries – These well-established brands offer reliable and dependable lead-acid batteries at competitive prices. While they require regular maintenance and have shorter lifespans compared to lithium-ion options, they provide a solid solution for applications where upfront cost is a major consideration.
Second Runner Up: Enersys or Triathlon Lead-Acid Batteries – These brands are good options to consider alongside GNB Industrial Power/Stryker or Hawker, depending on specific features and pricing offered by your local dealer.
The company is the world’s best electric forklift battery supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.
With so many options available, choosing the right forklift battery can be a tricky choice. So don’t hesitate, give us a call today at (833) 868-. We have helped countless businesses across the United States achieve lower maintenance costs, increased worker satisfaction, and economic sustainability by providing them with energy-efficient forklift solut6i. Our team of highly knowledgeable experts can help you make the right decision for your business.
Related Product :Your industrial lead-acid forklift battery has been examined by a professional and determined to be beyond repair consideration. So, you need replacement battery, and fast. Now what?!
The easy answer is to contact Eastern Lift Truck Co. We’ll send out an Account Manager or Customer Service Representative to gather the necessary information we need to present a quotation for a suitable replacement battery, and get your 4-wheel electric forklift or 3-wheel electric forklift operational again, as soon as possible.
Here is the information we need before we can work on replacing your industrial battery:
(1) The make, model number, serial number, and voltage of the forklift. This basic information is located on the forklift manufacturer’s data plate, aka the capacity plate. Taking a clear photo of the data plate is always a good idea for future reference.
(2) The minimum and maximum battery weights, as listed by the forklift manufacturer. This information is also on the forklift data plate. Getting the battery weight right is critical since the battery is usually an integral part of the counterweighting that allows your forklift to operate within its capacity specifications.
Next, grab a tape measure, and put on safety glasses and gloves, before proceeding. Open the hood on the forklift (if it has one) to gain access to the battery.
(3) Make a note if the exterior of the battery or the battery compartment appears to be covered in battery acid and/or corrosion. Battery corrosion is the toxic white or bluish substance found on batteries that have spilled acid (electrolyte) in the past. Be very careful, as these substances will burn your skin and eyes, and destroy your clothing.
It is important that any acid or corrosion be properly removed before a replacement battery is installed. This involves pressure washing and should be completed in a suitable and environmentally friendly wash bay. Make a note if your forklift needs to be cleaned. Don’t worry if it does. It is highly recommended to wash and clean your forklift during this process.
Something else to keep in mind: if your battery is severely corroded and acid has found its way down under the battery, there may be hidden damage to hoses or other componentry. When Eastern Lift Truck Co. technicians replace batteries, they check for these types of issues and address any concerns with you before proceeding.
(4) Next, you want to record the make, model serial number and measurements of your failing battery. Most batteries have a data tag or sticker with this helpful information. You may also locate the model number stamped into the battery casing, although this may be a bit more challenging to locate than the tag or sticker. Also note if your company has a preferred brand of battery or if you are open to different battery options.
(5) Measure the battery length across the top of the casing, from one lifting eye to the other – outside dimension to outside dimension. In a sit-down forklift, this dimension runs across the forklift from one side to the other, left to right.
(6) Using the same example of a sit-down forklift, the battery width is measured from front of the battery (nearest the front of the forklift) to back or rear of the forklift.
(7) Getting the height of the battery can be a bit tricky. You’ll need to be sure your tape measure reaches the very bottom of the battery compartment and is hitting a battery spacer or resting on any debris (corrosion, pens, paper, etc.) that has fallen into the compartment since it was last cleaned. Measure to the very top of the lifting handles, or highest point on the battery case. If the battery has a cover (aka lid) make sure your measurement includes it.
(8) While you are inspecting the battery, take a moment to review how you water it. If you are still watering individual cells by hand, your employees run a greater risk of coming into contact with acid and/or accidentally overfilling cells. Overfilled cells result in boil-over, unbalanced electrolyte levels, and a build-up of corrosion, which greatly reduces battery life.
Eastern Lift Truck Co. offers a variety of battery watering options and accessories such as single-point watering systems and battery watering carts and guns, to improve your overall battery safety and environmental cleanliness.
Single-point battery watering systems are now common and easy to use. After a water hose is connected, a valve is opened, and in just a few seconds the entire battery is watered, with each individual cell filled to the same accurate level. The process greatly reduces time spent on battery care and extends battery life.
Despite everyone’s best efforts, lead-acid battery spills may still occur. It would be beneficial to invest in a spill containment kit and make sure your battery maintenance area(s) are equipped with a working eye wash station for your personnel to use.
(9) If your current battery has a single-point watering system installed and you would like a similar system on your new battery, take a photo of the water supply connection, so it may be reviewed and matched on the new battery.
(10) Do you want blinky lights on your replacement battery? If so, make a note of it. Blinky lights are another popular battery option offered by Eastern Lift Truck Co. They provide a simple visual warning when electrolyte levels drop too low in individual cells.
(11) At this point, measure the battery compartment and note if it currently incorporates spacers. When batteries are undersized, or don’t completely fill the battery compartment, spacers are used to secure the battery from moving within the compartment. Unsecured or improperly secured batteries are dangerous, as they may shift and come out of the forklift during operation.
(12) Next, check the battery cables and connections for damage. Note any issues.
(13) Measure and record the overall length of the battery cables and note what length is optimal to reach your battery charger. Only measure what protrudes from the battery tray. Now, is also a good time to consider if you will be keeping your battery charger in the same location or moving it. Talk to your material handling provider about options for moving your charger.
(14) Next, note where the battery cables are attached to the battery. Draw a simple diagram to show the battery in relation to the front of the forklift and place an “x” or circle where the battery cables are attached. Something similar to this example will work.
(15) Note the amperage and color of your battery connector. Two common amperages are: 175-amperage and 350-amperage. This information may be found stamped into the plastic housing of the connector. Your connector may state SB175 or SB350. Connectors come in a variety of colors but are usually grey, blue, or red. Getting all of this information correct is important, as connectors with different amperage and colors are not interchangeable.
(16) Now list the make, model number, and serial number of the charger that is matched with the battery. Make a note if you utilize traditional or opportunity charging, or plan to make changes.
(17) Despite it being last on our list, collecting the following charger information is critical. Jot down your charger’s AC input voltage (208v, 240v, or 480v) and note if the wiring is single or three phase. It may be abbreviated as “1 ph” or “3 ph” on the charger data plate. Like you did for the battery, list any concerns about the condition of the charger cables and note the charger connector type and color (see step 15).
It’s a lot to review, but having all of this information will expedite your battery ordering process and help your material handling provider quote the proper battery replacement, and offer suitable battery options that fit your forklift, application, budget, and timeframe.
If you are interested in learning more about industrial battery safety and other measures to make your operation safer and OSHA compliant, please contact Eastern Lift Truck Co.’s Training Dept.
Are you interested in learning more about portable energy storage? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!