An electric forklift consumes 15,000 kWh per year, according to the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI).
What is the cost of charging an electric forklift?
3. Additional Features
Other options that increase or decrease the vehicle’s cost may be available with different models. There are three and four-wheeled variants available, depending on how maneuverable the forklift needs to be in confined situations. You should also think about the forklift’s lifting height to make sure it’ll fit in your warehouse. There are also pneumatic and cushioned tire alternatives. Cushioned is preferable for indoor use on hard, flat surfaces. If you need to utilize the forklift outside, however, pneumatic tires will be more practical. Other models may include features such as safety lights, backup cameras, or other add-ons that raise the price.
With such a large range of forklift models and types to choose from, it should be simple to find one that meets your requirements, as long as you can afford the features you require. With a quick charge battery, the latest, top-of-the-line electric machines can lift up to 70,000 pounds, but that level of performance can cost well over $100,000.
4. The Costs of Using an Electric Forklift
In the end, a typical electric forklift costs about $1 per hour of use, compared to more than $20 for other types of forklifts. The true savings with any electric forklift comes from the low running costs. You don’t have to worry about buying fuel like you would with engine-powered forklifts because they rely on rechargeable batteries. Electric batteries are also easier to maintain.
Electric Forklift Average Cost by Brand
Here’s a look at some of the average prices for new electric forklifts from some well-known manufacturers. Please keep in mind that these are sample costs derived from a variety of electric models, and your pricing may vary depending on the criteria mentioned above.
What is the power consumption of a forklift charger?
The energy required to power a battery-powered lift truck is significant: one estimate claims that a typical charger consumes 15,000 kWh per year, resulting in a total utility cost of $1,500 per year (Ecos 2009)3.
What is the kWh capacity of a forklift battery?
The capacity of a standard forklift battery is around 40 kWh. If the charger is 75 percent efficient and the duty cycle per shift is 75 percent of the battery, the electrical energy required per shift is 40 kWh.
How long does it take for an electric forklift to charge?
The majority of new batteries will survive about 1,500 cycles. A battery that is charged once a day (about 300 times per year) can last up to five years. Charge batteries at the end of each shift or when they’re more than 30% depleted.
What is the reason behind the high cost of forklifts?
Because the price of a forklift increases as its capacity increases. This is due to the fact that the truck requires more material to produce. A truck with a 10,000-pound capacity, for example, can cost roughly twice as much as one with a 5,000-pound capacity.
How long does it take a forklift to fully charge?
More warehouse and manufacturing enterprises are relying on electric forklifts rather than internal combustion vehicles to fulfill reduced emissions limits. Electric vehicles already account for more than 60% of the forklift market. Electric forklifts are generally favored since they operate with a substantially lower noise level, in addition to having a lower carbon footprint with zero emissions. They’re also smaller, making them suitable for compact places and narrow aisles. The benefits add up to a safer, more environmentally friendly, and cost-effective solution, especially for indoor operations.
If you’re thinking about getting into the electric forklift business, it’s a good idea to educate yourself beforehand. The Apex team is a leading provider of electric forklift vehicles, and we’re here to assist you in finding the best fit for your operation.
Take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions about electric forklift batteries and chargers that we receive.
Electric ForkliftsBatteries & Chargers FAQs
1. How long does it take to charge the battery on an electric forklift? Charging times are determined by the battery’s capacity, the charger’s amperage, and the remaining battery charge. Most electric forklift batteries take eight hours to fully charge, however the 8-8-8 Rule should be followed: eight hours of operating, eight hours of charging, and eight hours of cooling. This will help you get the most out of your battery. Charge only when the remaining capacity is depleted.
2. How often should I replace the battery in my forklift? A well maintained lead-acid forklift battery can endure for more than ten years. Replace your battery if it no longer holds a charge, needs to be recharged regularly after periods of inactivity, has corrosion on the case, or emits a sulfuric stench. Replace the battery right away if it starts to smoke during usage or charging.
3. What is the price of a new forklift battery? The solution to this question is contingent on the sort of forklift in question. A new battery typically costs about a third of the overall cost of the forklift. Your first line of defense should be proper maintenance, reconditioning, or repair.
4. Do I need to add water to the battery in my forklift? You certainly do. Every 10 charge cycles, the water level should be checked. After the charge cycle is finished, perform this check. If you need water, use an approved solution or distilled water rather than tap water, which contains components that reduce battery efficiency and life. Overfilling the container might result in spills and serious sulfuric acid skin burns.
5. What is the minimum amount of room required to charge my forklift? To charge your forklift each day, you won’t need much more room than your forklift, but it should be in a clearly demarcated area away from other forklifts.
6. How can I be sure I’m selecting the correct charger? Choose a battery charger that the manufacturer recommends for your forklift. The charger is based on the battery voltage (e.g., 24, 36, 48, 72, 80V) and required output in Amp-Hrs, which should be within 10% of the battery’s rating to ensure a full charge within the scheduled charge time.
7. What is the best way to transport forklift batteries?
Forklift batteries often weigh between 1,000 and 4,000 pounds. Always, always, always, always, always, always, always, always, always, always Before traveling, make sure everyone has the required PPE and training. Damage and corrosion should be checked at battery lift points, and lift equipment should be within the rated lift capacity. Batteries should also be securely fastened to prevent spilling during transport. Batteries should be transported by a competent and experienced professional.
8. What is the best way to charge a forklift battery? Check to see if the battery and charger outputs are compatible, and that the charger cables are in good working order; they should not be damaged or cracked. With the key off and the brake applied, or the wheels chocked, make sure the forklift is in the right charging location away from aisle traffic. Plug the charger into the charging connector and start the charge cycle while wearing the required PPE. Disconnect and contact someone for service if anything strange occurs, such as smoke, excessive sparks, or odors. Disconnect and verify battery water levels as indicated by the battery logbook once the charge is complete. After the battery has been charged and cooled, add water as needed.
9. Who is responsible for charging forklift batteries? Your forklift battery should be inspected, maintained, repaired, and charged by a trained and experienced professional. If your employees have not received sufficient training and instruction, they should not attempt to change or charge your forklift batteries.
10. What are the safety requirements for my charging station? OSHA has set forth specific safety guidelines for forklift battery charging stations, which include enough ventilation to disperse hydrogen vapors, fire protection or a fire extinguisher, an eyewash station, warning/No Smoking signs, and acid neutralization chemicals in the near area. More information can be found at https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/pit/forklift/electric.html.
Plug In with Apex Parts & Service Team
The Apex team is dedicated to assisting you with all of your forklift battery and charging requirements. When it’s time to replace either one, we offer a thorough check as well as a wide range of batteries and chargers. We also carry a number of different brands. Get in touch with Apex right away!
What is the battery life of a forklift?
On a full charge, a forklift battery should last an entire eight-hour shift, although this might vary depending on the age of the battery and how hard the equipment is working. A vehicle that doesn’t travel much and only lifts little amounts of weight might get twelve hours out of a single charge.
Charge the battery at the end of each day
Allowing your battery to discharge during the day, when the forklift is in use, and then charging it overnight keeps your battery in good working order. This also ensures that you receive the most charge cycles for your money. If you use “opportunity charging,” which is when you charge your battery for a brief 10 minutes before using it again, you’ve burned up one of your finite number of charge cycles in an inefficient manner. In order to get the most out of the charging cycle and keep the battery in good condition, it’s recommended to leave the forklift battery to charge overnight.
Change the battery in a dry place
The battery in your forklift truck is subject to oxidation and rust. If the rust on the battery is allowed to grow up, it can be highly dangerous. To avoid this, make sure you change your battery in a cold, dry, and well-ventilated environment. The risk of oxidation will be reduced as a result.
Allow the charge to complete before using
Once the charge has started, try not to disturb it. Instead of unplugging the battery too soon when it is plugged in, let it charge for the recommended amount of time. This will provide the forklift battery with the energy it requires to function.
Maintain appropriate fluid levels
The forklift battery’s fluid levels are critical to the battery’s overall health. If the fluid level falls too low, the plates will be exposed to the air, resulting in long-term damage and a significant reduction in battery efficiency. Fluid levels should be filled up roughly every 10 charges or so. This should be topped up after the charge, not before.
What is the weight of a 36 volt forklift battery?
Model 18-125-17 / 1000AH capacity new 36 Volt GB Industrial Battery. 38 1/8L x 20 1/16W x 30 1/2H (without cover). 3082 pound weight.
Is it true that electric forklifts are more expensive than propane forklifts?
The price of a cushion propane lift truck is from $24,000 to $30,000. A comparable electric lift truck can set you back between $35,000 and $40,500.