Electric powered vehicles need a reliable power source. Traction batteries are used on stackers, forklifts and other warehouse equipment to ensure the operation of the engine and other moving elements.
Batteries of this type, unlike starter batteries, generate a constant stable current for the functioning of all mechanisms. Traction batteries are designed for cyclic operation with an interval of several hours to a day. At the end of the “work shift” of the battery, it needs to be charged.
Stacker and forklift batteries have a different plate design and have a much longer life than automotive batteries.
Stackers Types
There are several types of stackers and lifting devices that run on traction batteries.
- Self-propelled equipment uses battery power to move and raise the work platform. These stackers are equipped with two electric drives and are the most productive in continuous production.
- Forklifts with electric lifting have one drive that provides lifting of loads. The movement of such a device is carried out manually.
The greater the load capacity of the device, the more powerful the battery must be. The choice of power also depends on the design features of a particular loader – the presence of a platform for the operator, increased fork lift height and additional equipment. All this consumes a lot of energy and requires a large capacity battery.
Types of Batteries:
All batteries are divided into several types according to the composition of the electrolyte:
- acid
- gel
- lithium-ion;
Acid traction batteries are one of the most popular and affordable. They are suitable for any warehouse equipment and are easy to maintain. Gel models are more modern and are considered maintenance-free. The electrolyte in such batteries is thickened to a gel state, which allows it to react well with metal plates. Such batteries do not need a separate charging room, do not require constant electrolyte filling and generally have a larger capacity than acid batteries.
Lithium-ion models have an extended life and are maintenance free. They are charged from the network at any time and do not depend on discharge. During operation, such batteries do not emit harmful substances, and also differ in the stability of the supplied voltage.
Traction Battery Parameters
There are few main characteristics important for a traction battery. When selecting devices, pay attention to the following values:
- voltage
- capacity
- sizes;
The voltage depends on the number of cells that make up one battery. Usually this number is a multiple of two, since each cell produces a voltage of 2 V. On stackers and forklifts, 12 V, 24 V and 48 volt battery is most commonly used.
Capacity is a value that determines the duration of the device without recharging. Warehouse equipment uses batteries with a capacity of 105 to 400 Ah. But it should be remembered that this indicator decreases at low temperatures or due to natural wear and tear.
Batteries vary in size. The operating instructions for warehouse equipment help to calculate the required battery.
How To Choose A Battery
Choosing a battery for a stacker requires some knowledge. To choose the right traction battery, you need to focus on the recommendations of the warehouse equipment manufacturer.
If you have a stacker or forklift operator’s manual, the values you need can be found there. If the instruction is lost, you can use two effective ways to select a device.
- The marking of the old battery contains all the necessary information about the battery. It indicates the capacitance and the total voltage. Dimensions or installation space may suggest the required battery size.
- Most modern manufacturers can pick up a battery, knowing only the brand and model of equipment.
Battery Maintenance
Proper maintenance of batteries can significantly extend their life. All battery care work can be divided into daily, weekly and monthly.
Every day it is necessary to evaluate the integrity of the power supply case, as well as charge it. If necessary, it is recommended to add electrolyte.
After the end of the working week, you should make an equalizing charge and clean the battery from dust. Connecting jumpers require regular diagnostics and replacement. It is also recommended to periodically check the insulation resistance, which should be at least 50 ohms.