V-Force Energy Solutions - Flipbook - Page 18
LITHIUM-ION BATTERY
CHEMISTRIES
RIGHT-SIZING FORKLIFT
BATTERIES
There are many different lithium-ion battery
chemistries on the market today. Each chemistry
has its own characteristics, so it’s important to
consider the application and how each chemistry
could affect the operation of your fleet. Your
energy solutions provider should be able to
answer questions and help guide your decision.
Below are some of today’s most popular lithiumion battery chemistries:
Forklifts are a significant investment, and part
of protecting that investment includes choosing
the battery size the forklift is designed to handle.
The right battery will ensure the forklift operates
at peak performance and avoid the possibility of
irreversible damage from using an over-voltage
battery. Check the forklift’s spec plate or speak
directly with the supplier to confirm the proper
voltage range for a specific lift truck.
LITHIUM IRON PHOSPHATE (LFP):
LFP batteries are the most widely adopted in
the industry. They have a reputation for their
long lifespan, relative safety, ruggedness
and ability to withstand a broad range of
temperatures.
Forklift batteries typically come in four voltage
ranges: 24V, 36V, 48V and 80V. A 24V forklift
battery is designed for smaller lift equipment,
like end or center riders. In contrast, 36V and
48V batteries are most appropriate for mid- and
large-sized equipment, including narrow aisle
forklifts and counterbalanced forklifts. Large
counterbalance forklifts using 80V batteries
are gaining favor as companies look for
electric alternatives to more traditional internal
combustion forklifts.
LITHIUM COBALT OXIDE (LCO):
LCO batteries are known for having high
energy density. However, they are much more
temperature-sensitive and have a shorter
lifecycle compared to other chemistries.
As batteries continue to evolve, the technology
may become available in different configurations
that provide customers with more choices and
align more closely with specific needs. For
instance, this could mean a line of batteries that
offer different charging cycle limits and overall
battery life to enable customers to only pay for
the power they need.
LITHIUM NICKEL MANGANESE
COBALT (NMC): NMC batteries offer a
unique balance of high energy density, long life
and wide temperature range.
LITHIUM TITANATE (LTO):
LTO batteries have long life and a wide
temperature range. However, they can be
more expensive compared to other battery
chemistries and offer significantly lower
energy density than other chemistries on
the market.
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