V-Force Energy Solutions - Flipbook - Page 25
5
Evolving Your Energy
Strategy
CHARGING CONSIDERATIONS FOR IMPROVING YOUR FORKLIFT FLEET’S ROI
To evolve and optimize an energy strategy, it’s important to identify the right charging types and
methods and harness data that can add standardization and predictability to a forklift battery program.
These actions can enhance forklift performance and efficiency.
Choosing the right charging method for your application can be challenging, especially in cases where
there is multi-shift usage with forklifts constantly on the move. When making your decision, there are
three types of forklift battery charging methods from which to choose, though charging behavior may
differ based on battery type.
1
2
3
CONVENTIONAL
CHARGING
OPPORTUNITY
CHARGING
FAST
CHARGING
Conventional charging is ideal
for single-shift operations
where no mid-shift battery
changing is needed. Following
a full shift of use, the battery
can be continuously charged
for eight hours, followed by an
eight-hour cooldown period,
ensuring it is ready for the
next scheduled shift.
Opportunity charging
involves charging a battery
for short intervals at available
times throughout the day.
These intervals may include
work breaks, scheduled
lunches and shift changes.
Virtually any downtime in
the warehouse that offers
a chance for the battery to
be plugged in for at least
ten minutes can be used for
opportunity charging. This
type of charging can be
used with lead-acid batteries
under certain circumstances
and is commonly used with
lithium-ion batteries.
Fast charging is a potential
solution for applications
that run two shifts backto-back or three shifts with
medium duty requirements.
It combines battery
monitoring technology with
advanced power conversion
to return energy to batteries
faster than conventional or
opportunity methods and
reduce downtime. A weekly
equalization charge is still
required. Using this method
can come with much higher
infrastructure costs and
reduced battery life.
23
