Whenever new technologies are developed, misconceptions come out of the woodwork to explain why it’s not as good as other options. This is true with electric forklifts, as many companies hold themselves back from using them because they believe they are inadequate. We’ll debunk five popular electric forklift myths to demonstrate that they have a place in industrial workspaces.
Electric Forklifts Don’t Work Outdoors
Early electric forklifts had open motors and struggled when exposed to elements such as seawater or sawdust. However, modern electric forklifts have sealed motors that protect the battery. Forklift manufacturers anticipated the need for outdoor work, and modern machines have no such limitations.
Electric Forklifts Require Battery Changes Between Shifts
Too many people assume an electric forklift battery won’t last back-to-back shifts and that workers need to stop working and swap it out. While there is a grain of truth to this myth, particularly when it comes to lead-acid powered electric forklifts, lithium-ion batteries, with their fast-charging technology and efficient chemistries, enables workers to charge batteries between multi-shifts without needing to swap them out entirely.
Fast-Charging Ruins the Battery
While this can be true for older lead-acid batteries, when it comes to lithium options, that isn’t the case. If you keep the batteries in good condition and avoid discharging too deeply, fast-charging a lithium battery causes no additional wear and tear than normal usage. Keep in mind that the limitations of fast-charging a battery may vary depending on the manufacturer. BigBattery industrial batteries can be fully discharged without issue, and handle fast charging without negative repercussions, both of which work together to maximize their lifespan.
Electric Forklifts Aren’t Powerful
We’ll debunk one of the most popular electric forklift myths right here and now: internal combustion forklifts are not inherently more powerful. Many industrial lithium batteries enable electric forklifts to match or even exceed a traditional model’s power and performance.
Electric Forklifts Are Expensive
One thing that holds many people back from converting to electric forklifts is the idea that the upfront costs of new equipment and batteries are too high. However, many leasing companies for equipment allow businesses to bundle the cost of batteries and chargers into the original paperwork. This process allows companies to make the switch at a much lower risk and start reaping the benefits of saving money with electric forklifts sooner rather than later. Plus, when you factor in the cost of maintenance and replacements for lead-acid batteries or propane tanks, the lifetime savings from switching to lithium power cover the cost of upgrading multiple times over.
BigBattery is here to help you learn more about industrial lithium battery packs for your electric forklifts. We have a catalog of battery packs to choose from and several helpful blog posts to help you get the most out of your equipment. If you have any additional questions, comments, or concerns, feel free to contact us anytime, and a helpful member of our staff will gladly assist you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long do LiFePO4 batteries last?
A quality LiFePO4 battery can commonly deliver 4,000 or more charge cycles, often roughly 10 years or longer under the right conditions. Depth of discharge, temperature, charge settings, storage habits, and the BMS all affect the result.
How many years is 4,000 cycles?
One full cycle per day is about 11 years. Three cycles per week is more than 25 years on paper, though calendar aging becomes the limit first.
What happens at the end of a LiFePO4 battery's life?
It does not suddenly stop. It loses capacity gradually. A battery rated for 4,000 cycles may be specified to keep around 80% of its original capacity at that point.
Does temperature affect LiFePO4 battery life?
Yes. High heat speeds aging, and charging below freezing can damage cells unless the battery has low-temperature protection or self-heating.
How long does a lithium battery last in an RV?
Many years, when charging sources are configured correctly and the battery is protected from freezing charge conditions. Annual cycles are often fewer than in a daily solar system, but conditions vary more.
How should I store a lithium battery?
Store it at a partial state of charge in a clean, dry, moderate-temperature location. Disconnect parasitic loads and check it periodically per the manufacturer's guidance.
