Charger

Product information

Guidelines for Proper Use of Battery Chargers for Electric Forklift Batteries

I. Selecting Charger Specifications Suitable for Battery Capacity

This is a critically important factor that directly affects battery lifespan.

If a charger with low charging current is selected, the charging time will be prolonged, which may lead to overcharging. Conversely, if a charger with excessively high charging current is used, the charging time may be insufficient, resulting in undercharging.

II. Proper Battery Charging Procedures

Most chargers available on the market today provide two charging modes: Normal Charging and Equalization Charging. Please contact the supplier to obtain precise instructions on how to activate each mode.

1. Normal Charging

Securely connect the battery to the charger and press the start button. The charger will supply current based on the battery voltage and automatically stop once the battery reaches full charge.

2. Equalization Charging

After approximately 3–4 weeks of operation, slight differences in voltage and electrolyte specific gravity may occur among individual battery cells. At this stage, equalization charging should be performed to ensure proper battery performance.

Depending on the workload and usage intensity, the frequency of equalization charging may be increased or decreased accordingly. Please contact the supplier for specific recommendations.

3. Important Notes Before, During, and After Charging

3.1 Before Charging

• Check the charger input voltage to ensure it is within the manufacturer’s specified range:

  • 3-phase, 200 V AC (200 V / 210 V / 220 V / 230 V)

  • 3-phase, 400 V AC (340 V / 360 V / 380 V / 400 V / 420 V / 440 V / 460 V)

• Check the electrolyte level through the vent plug and ensure it is within the permitted range.

• Use only genuine distilled water (manufactured by GS) and refill using dedicated tools to prevent foreign chemicals from entering individual cells, which may affect battery quality or cause damage.

• Ensure the charger is securely connected to the battery.

3.2 During Charging

• Ensure the electrolyte temperature does not exceed 55°C.

• Keep the vent plugs tightly closed.

• Place the battery in a well-ventilated area, away from open flames, sparks, or areas with potential static electricity accumulation.

3.3 After Charging

• Allow the battery to rest and cool down until the temperature returns to normal (35–45°C). In urgent operating conditions, the resting time must be at least 30 minutes.

• Ensure the battery is fully charged in every charging cycle.

• Avoid opportunity charging during work breaks. If unavoidable, the battery must be charged to 100%, or a spare battery should be used alternately.

III. Additional Recommendations

• Do not use mechanical chargers for electric forklift or electric vehicle batteries.

• Do not use chargers with different capacities interchangeably for all batteries.

• Perform regular inspection and maintenance of chargers (at least once per year) to ensure compliance with the manufacturer’s charging requirements.

• Stop charging immediately if abnormal conditions occur, such as strong acid odor, charging temperature exceeding 55°C, smoke emission, etc., and notify the battery supplier promptly.

• Do not repair or modify the charger structure without authorization from the supplier or manufacturer.