Technical Parameters Guide for Forklift Lead-Acid Batteries

Time：2025-07-22 11:06:13

Browse：611

Understanding these parameters can help users better select, use and maintain lead-acid batteries for forklifts, ensuring the efficient and stable operation of forklifts.

In the field of industrial logistics, forklifts are indispensable handling equipment, and lead-acid batteries, as the power source for many forklifts, have a crucial impact on the performance and operating costs of forklifts due to their technical parameters. Understanding these parameters can help users better select, use and maintain lead-acid batteries for forklifts, ensuring the efficient and stable operation of forklifts.
Analysis of main technical parameters
Voltage
The voltage of lead-acid batteries is a key parameter. The common voltages of lead-acid batteries for forklifts include 24V, 48V, 80V and many other specifications. The terminal voltage of a single-cell lead-acid battery is 2V, and the required working voltage is achieved by connecting multiple single-cell batteries in series. For instance, if the battery used on a forklift is 48V, this battery should be composed of 24 cells connected in series. Voltage determines the power supply capacity of the battery. Generally speaking, the higher the voltage, the stronger the power that the forklift can obtain theoretically, which can drive the forklift to carry heavier goods and achieve a higher operating speed.
Capacity
Capacity is usually measured in ampere-hours (Ah), which reflects the amount of electricity stored in the battery and determines the duration of continuous operation of the forklift after a single charge, that is, the endurance. The capacity range of lead-acid batteries for forklifts is quite wide, ranging from tens of ampere-hours to hundreds of ampere-hours, such as the common 400Ah and 630Ah. Generally speaking, the more complex the usage scenarios of forklifts and the greater the working intensity, the larger the battery capacity required. For instance, in large logistics warehouses, forklifts need to operate continuously for long periods of time, so they should be equipped with large-capacity lead-acid batteries to reduce the frequency of charging and enhance work efficiency.
Size and weight
The dimensions of a storage battery include length, width and height, and its weight varies depending on its capacity and material. These two parameters may seem insignificant, but they affect the installation and layout of the battery on the forklift, as well as the overall performance and operational convenience of the forklift. Larger-sized and heavier batteries may require special handling and installation equipment, and overly heavy batteries will increase the self-weight of forklifts, affecting their operational flexibility and energy consumption. Therefore, when choosing a battery, it is necessary to select a product with a suitable size and weight based on the design specifications of the forklift.
Battery type
Charging time
Charging time refers to the duration required for a battery to go from complete discharge to full charge. This parameter is jointly influenced by the power of the charger and the capacity of the battery. Generally speaking, the regular charging time for lead-acid batteries is about 8 to 10 hours. Although fast charging can restore some of the battery's charge in a short time and improve work efficiency, frequent fast charging may reduce the battery's service life. Therefore, in practical use, it is necessary to strike a balance between charging time and battery life. According to the usage frequency and work arrangement of the forklift, the charging method should be reasonably selected.
Cycle life
Cycle life refers to the number of times a battery can be charged and discharged under specific conditions, which reflects the durability of the battery. The cycle life of different types of lead-acid batteries varies. For instance, under proper maintenance, the cycle life of flooded lead-acid batteries can reach up to 1,500 times. The longer the cycle life, the lower the frequency of battery replacement during long-term use, which can effectively reduce operating costs.
Internal resistance
Internal resistance is the hindrance to current within a battery. The smaller the internal resistance, the less energy is lost during the charging and discharging process of the battery, the higher the efficiency of electrical energy conversion, and the better the performance. In actual use, if it is found that the power of the forklift decreases or the charging time becomes longer, it may be caused by an increase in the internal resistance of the battery. At this time, the battery needs to be inspected and maintained, and a new battery should be replaced if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: How to select lead-acid batteries of appropriate capacity based on the working requirements of forklifts?
If the forklift is mainly used for short-distance transportation of light goods in small warehouses or indoors, and the working time is relatively short, a battery with a relatively smaller capacity, such as 200-400Ah batteries, can be chosen. This can not only meet the working requirements but also reduce costs. However, if forklifts need to operate continuously for long periods in large logistics centers, factory workshops and other places, handle heavy goods and travel long distances, they should be equipped with large-capacity batteries, such as those with a capacity of over 600Ah, to ensure that the forklifts have sufficient endurance and avoid frequent charging that may affect work efficiency. At the same time, factors such as the lifting height and traveling speed of the forklift should also be taken into consideration, as these will all affect the selection of battery capacity. For instance, forklifts that frequently perform high-lifting operations require greater power support and thus need batteries with larger capacity.
Question 2: What effects will there be if the charging time of lead-acid batteries is too long or too short?
Charging for too long, that is, overcharging, will cause a large amount of gas to be produced inside the battery, leading to the loss of water in the electrolyte and the shedding of active substances on the plates, accelerating battery aging and shortening its lifespan. At the same time, overcharging may also cause the battery to overheat, posing safety hazards. However, if the charging time is too short, that is, insufficient charging, the battery will not be fully charged, and both the range and power of the forklift will be affected. Long-term undercharging can also cause sulfation of the battery plates, increase internal resistance, further reduce battery performance, and in severe cases, even lead to battery scrapping. Therefore, it is necessary to strictly follow the charging time and method specified by the battery manufacturer, use the appropriate charger, and ensure the normal charging of the battery.
Question 3: How to determine if a lead-acid battery needs to be replaced?
When the battery shows the following conditions, it may be necessary to consider replacing it: First, the battery capacity drops significantly, and the working time of the forklift is greatly shortened after being fully charged, which cannot meet the normal working requirements. Secondly, during charging, if the battery gets extremely hot and the charging time is significantly shortened or prolonged, this may indicate an internal fault in the battery. Thirdly, observe the appearance of the battery. If you find that the battery casing is deformed or cracked, the electrolyte is leaking, or the plates have severe sulfation, corrosion, or peeling, the battery should also be replaced in a timely manner. In addition, if the battery's cycle life has approached or reached the number of times specified by the manufacturer, even if the battery can still be used with difficulty at present, it is recommended to replace it to avoid sudden malfunctions during operation and affect the production progress.
Understanding the technical parameters of lead-acid batteries for forklifts and related knowledge is crucial for the efficient operation and maintenance of forklifts. By making reasonable choices and using lead-acid batteries correctly, the working performance of forklifts can be improved, the battery life can be prolonged, operating costs can be reduced, and reliable guarantees can be provided for the logistics and handling work of enterprises.

Statement: The articles on this site are written by the GSGT team or reprinted from other media or compiled by AI.No reproduction without permission.For copyright or other issues, please contact:gsgtpower@163.com.

News

Technical Parameters Guide for Forklift Lead-Acid Batteries

24V/VCF6A lead-acid battery NICHIYU FBR9 forward forklift battery factory direct supply

24-7PBS/560M Forklift Battery for Hyster E40XN 48V 560Ah Excellent in Both Price and Quality

24V/4HPzS620 Lead-Acid Battery for ForkLifts and Hyster N30XMR3 Special Battery for ForkLifts

24-6PZS480 48V480Ah Lead-Acid Battery The Best Partner for CLARK EPX20S Series ForkLifts