What are the advantages and disadvantages of lithium batteries for forklifts?
You may have noticed that many suppliers are promoting lithium batteries for forklifts. For forklifts, this technology is relatively new, but warehouse managers are still asking many questions about its use in warehouse applications.
Forklift battery manufacturers shared the advantages and disadvantages of forklift lithium batteries in warehouse applications:
What are the advantages of
lithium batteries for forklifts in warehouse applications?
1. Due to the fact that the lithium-ion forklift body is two feet shorter than the lead-acid body, operators can work in narrow areas. This is very convenient for loading trucks and operating in narrow aisles.
2. Less heat is generated during charging and discharging.
3. Due to the smaller battery, the rear forklift has a better view.
4. Lithium batteries are lighter (which is also a disadvantage, please refer to the following text).
5. They are more long-lasting. Kalma said that life has increased by over 100%.
6. Their charging speed is faster than lead-acid batteries. Lithium ion batteries can absorb 50% of their capacity in just 30 to 40 minutes of charging time. After 80 minutes, the lithium battery can reach a fully charged state. Boost charging makes it possible to use forklifts equipped with lithium batteries 7 days a week, with a maximum of 24 hours per day without battery replacement.
7. Lithium batteries have higher energy efficiency and do not require three shifts of battery replacement. When it comes to the use of industrial batteries, lithium ions, especially lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4), are particularly good. The service life of lithium batteries is five times that of lead-acid batteries.
8. Moreover,
lithium batteries do not experience the voltage drop experienced by lead-acid batteries. They fully charged until they were exhausted.
9. They have no sulfation issues or safety issues with gas release. Therefore, there is no need for a ventilation system in the charging area.
11. Lithium ion batteries are safer.
12. Compared to alternative products, the cost of batteries is lower throughout their entire lifespan.
