Forklift Battery Voltage and Types
When it’s time to replace batteries for your electric forklifts, consult your owner’s manuals for guidance.
Forklift Battery Voltages
Manufacturers provide specifications regarding battery types and power requirements based on your equipment’s size. Forklift batteries typically range from 24 volts to 80 volts.
Explore our Turret Trucks Trucks: Linde 5231 Turret Truck: 80 Voltage
Explore our Sit-down Electric Trucks: Big Joe LPE 50/60: 80 Voltage Lithium Battery
Forklift Battery Types
Confirm which battery voltage your forklifts require. Once you’ve determined the necessary power, consider the type of battery:
Lead-Acid Batteries: These are the most common type, featuring lead plates in an acid solution.
TPPL Batteries: These are a type of Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) batteries.
Lithium-Ion (Li-ion) Batteries: These are more advanced, utilizing lithium compounds for electrodes.
Explore our Ironclad Batteries: Enersys Ironclad Batteries
Explore our Lithium-Ion Batteries: Linde Lithium Ion Batteries
LITHIUM-ION VS LEAD ACID
Lead-acid batteries have served as the traditional choice for electric power and have undergone adjustments over time to better meet the demands of demanding operational environments. However, lead-acid batteries demand a significant amount of maintenance while lithium ion batteries are constructed with smarter and cleaner technology that has continued to evolve and advance.
LITHIUM-ION VS TPPL
Comparing TPPL batteries to lithium-ion batteries reveals a notable difference. Although TPPL batteries may outperform traditional lead-acid batteries in terms of efficiency, capacity, and lifespan, they still fall short of a lithium-ion battery in all category.
Here’s what you should consider when choosing the best battery for your needs:
Power and Energy: Lead-acid batteries offer high power density but lower energy density. Li-ion batteries excel in both, providing more energy in less space for improved runtime and performance.
Charging: Lead-acid batteries require discharge to 20% capacity before recharging and have longer charging times. Li-ion batteries can be opportunistically charged, allowing flexibility in charging times and reducing downtime.
Maintenance: Lead-acid batteries need regular fluid level checks and may require backup batteries for uninterrupted operation. Li-ion batteries require less maintenance but may need occasional repairs to connections.
Safety: Lead-acid batteries pose risks of acid spills and fumes during charging, requiring separate charging rooms. Li-ion batteries are sealed against spills and can be charged opportunistically, reducing the need for battery changes.
Life: Lead-acid batteries typically last around 5 years, while Li-ion batteries can last 5 to 10 years, depending on usage.
Recycling: Lead-acid batteries are highly recyclable, while Li-ion batteries present recycling challenges.
Energy Efficiency: Lead-acid batteries require overcharging for optimal performance, while Li-ion batteries are more efficient without the need for overcharging.
Technology: Li-ion batteries offer advanced features such as live data transmission and built-in safety mechanisms through Battery Management Systems.
Total Cost of Ownership (TCO): While lead-acid batteries have a lower initial cost, Li-ion batteries offer benefits in efficiency, safety, and longevity despite their higher price tag. Converting to Li-ion may require equipment adaptation and consideration of recycling challenges.
Ultimately, weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each battery type against your specific needs will help you make an informed decision for your fleet.
Total Warehouse are proud dealers for Linde, Big Joe, UniCarriers, and Landoll. We’ve helped countless businesses across the United States achieve lower maintenance, reduced costs, increased worker satisfaction, and increased economic sustainability by making the switch. Our team of highly knowledgeable experts can help you make the right decision for your business. Give us a call at 833-868-2500 or contact us online.
