Over the years, forklifts have evolved from IC engine machines to advanced electric forklifts that are safer, quieter, and easier to operate. But the changes haven’t stopped there. The rising lithium-powered forklifts have become the game-changer in the industry. However, most people stop switching to lithium-ion (Li-ion) due to its higher initial costs compared to lead-acid alternatives. This article is going to explain why Li-ion forklifts are worth the extra price.
When purchasing a battery-powered device, it is understandable to not be 100 percent sure of the ins and outs of what sort of battery you’ll need. It can be confusing to know what you are looking for in terms of the battery or understand the differences between lead-acid batteries and lithium-ion batteries. However, lithium-ion options are going to be more efficient and worth your while.
Over time, you may become dissatisfied with the performance or operational time of the lead-acid battery and may even need to request warranty replacements later. This process can become a headache, and often can become frustrating as your applications still need power. Your everyday life and business should not stop because a lead-acid battery weakens.
Here are some of the most common reasons you may experience dissatisfaction with a lead-acid battery, and why lithium is a better choice in every department.
- Higher efficiency means more power.
Lithium forklift batteries are more efficient than lead-acid ones, which means that they can provide more power for lifting heavy loads while also requiring less electricity to do so. This is because lithium batteries are about twice as efficient at turning the electricity they receive into mechanical energy, which powers whatever you have attached to them.
- Lasts longer with less downtime
Lithium batteries have a lifespan of about 5-7 years, which is double that of lead-acid ones. That means you won’t have to spend as much time maintaining and replacing your forklift’s battery packs. It also means fewer down periods due to recharging times and fewer malfunctions.
- Lead-acid batteries lose power as they age and get warmer, but lithium ones don’t
Lead-acid batteries get less efficient over time and when they’re used in higher temperatures. This means that the forklift will have significantly reduced performance on hot summer days or when being used to move heavy loads. Lithium batteries, on the other hand, don’t lose power as they get older or as they’re used in high temperatures.
- More Consistent Power
Whether you have a single-forklift operation or a large fleet working 24-hours a day, one important factor in delivering results is consistent power throughout the charge of the battery. Lithium-ion forklift batteries deliver consistent power and battery voltage throughout the full charge, whereas lead-acid battery charges deliver declining power rates as the shift wears on.
- Lead-acid batteries need to be replaced every 3 years but lithium ones can last 7
If you’re spending $3,000-$5,000 a year on new lead-acid forklift battery packs every 3 years, you’ll start seeing a lot of savings with lithium batteries. Lithium battery packs cost about twice as much as their lead-acid counterparts but double the lifespan and they’re more efficient, so it’s well worth the investment.
- Lower maintenance costs
Lithium forklifts battery require less regular maintenance than lead-acid ones, which means lower costs for you. You’ll spend less time fixing and replacing your batteries and have more time to focus on other parts of your operations. A lithium battery might outlast a set of 4-5 lead-acid batteries so, in the long run, the cost of replacing it will work out to be cheaper.
- Improve your company’s image
Lithium forklift batteries look a lot better than lead-acid ones because they don’t have their unsightly cables attached to them all the time. They’re also much less noisy, which means that you’ll have an easier time hearing that customer call for help, instead of having to try and guess where the sound came from.
- Oportunity Charging
Lithium-ion forklift batteries can be opportunity charged in any setting, eliminating the need for time-consuming battery swaps.
- Safer Batteries
Lithium forklift batteries are much safer than lead-acid ones because they don’t explode or release poisonous gases when punctured or exposed to high temperatures (unlike their lead-acid counterparts).
- Fewer Batteries Required
Lithium-ion forklift batteries can remain in equipment longer — to the point where one lithium-ion battery can take the place of three lead-acid batteries in a multi-shift use setting. This helps reduce the cost of storage space required for additional lead-acid batteries.
OTHER BENEFITS
● Clean energy with no hazardous acid liquid and no harmful emission;
● Increased working space as no spare unit or charging center is required;
● Li-ion forklift batteries maintain their capacity in cold temps much better than lead-acid and can be fast-charged in cold temps, even inside freezers.
● Lithium-ion batteries require none of the watering, equalizing, and cleaning needed to maintain lead-acid batteries. This is a money saver in terms of both maintenance costs and downtime.
● All Li-ion batteries are equipped with a BMS to ensure safety for the battery. While their primary function is safety, these systems can be programmed with advanced algorithms to benefit the user with higher measurement precision, performance, and case-specific solutions that enhance the battery and the quality of the application.
FINAL WORDS
Overall, based on our customer feedback, a 2.5-ton Lithium-Ion forklift can help you save up to $30 per day by reducing maintenance, energy costs, and even man-hours to replace units.
However, Li-Ion batteries would definitely become the new generation of forklifts power. Don’t wait until you waste all the money!
Still, wondering if a Li-Ion battery would perfectly fit your business? BSLBATT battery can help. From identifying the right battery to sourcing new equipment, we have got you covered. Our team of dedicated professional material handling experts is ready to help you find the right solution.
(Source: BSLBatt’s Blog page)
