Understanding the major components of a forklift battery can make it easier for operators to take care of their equipment. Maintain your batteries to avoid downtime and increase efficiency; learn about the most important components of a forklift battery.
1. Battery Tray
The forklift battery tray protects the interior components from damage. A severely damaged tray can leave the cells exposed and unprotected. Forklift batteries sometimes have covers that come in different folding designs, such as the standard flip cover or a split hinge cover, which has a hinge in the center of the cover.
2. Cables and Connectors
Other important components of a forklift battery include the cables and connectors. If you have problems with your battery’s cables or connectors, you probably need to replace these parts rather than the whole battery. Replace damaged connectors or cable insulation to prevent these parts from overheating. And when you clean the contact points on the connector, use non-abrasive materials.
3. Battery Cells
The central components of a forklift battery are the battery cells. Each cell contains positive and negative plates, which are called electrodes; these electrodes are suspended in an electrolyte solution. Depending on your voltage, your forklift battery cell arrangement might contain six, 12, 16, or 18 cells. The voltage per cell is two volts.
4. Intercell Connectors
Intercell connectors are either bars or cables that connect the individual cells to each other to create a circuit. Cracked or loosened connectors can lead to an uneven draw of power from the cells, reducing the operating time of the battery and increasing the risk of damage to battery cells. Essential information about your battery is either stamped on an intercell connector or the tray—if you need to replace the battery, look in these areas.
Following proper charging procedures and routinely inspecting the battery tray, cables and connectors, battery cells, and intercell connectors will keep your battery in good condition. If you find any problems with the battery, pull it from the rotation and talk to a service technician.
