Electric pallet jack battery - a useful selection guide

This article provides an in-depth look at the electric pallet jack battery, including its components, types, and use cases. The maintenance of electric pallet jack battery will also be discussed in order to ensure it performs well and lasts long. Finally, we will explore some common issues that can arise with electric pallet truck batteries and how to address them.

What is an electric pallet jack battery?

An electric pallet jack battery is a driving battery that serves as a power source for electrically powered pallet trucks. The two typical batteries you’ll often find in pallet trucks are lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries, with the former topping the chart. The battery undergoes a chemical change of chemical energy into electrical energy when using it.

There is a greater demand for lithium-ion batteries due to their high energy density and how fast they charge in a short time. Another type of battery utilized in electric pallet trucks is the lead-gel battery, which has less energy density and durability than lithium-ion batteries.

What is the voltage of a pallet jack battery?

In contrast to the 3v battery found in consumer batteries, an electric pallet truck battery often requires higher voltage and large ah to deliver adequate power.An electric pallet truck battery’s voltage might range between 12 and 72 volts.

But in most cases, electric pallet jacks require a 24-volt battery. Also, a battery’s capacity is usually measured in amp-hours (Ah). So, keep in mind that the greater the Ah, the longer the battery will survive between charges.

Types of electric pallet truck batteries

You may wonder what type of electric pallet jack battery will be perfect for you as a business owner. The technology and design of the cells determine the kind of electric pallet jack battery.

Some standard batteries for powering pallet trucks are lead-acid and lithium-ion, with cylindrical and other shapes. Each type has its own cost, performance, safety, and maintenance benefits and drawbacks.

Lead-acid batteries

Lead-acid batteries are a form of battery in which lead plates serve as electrodes and sulfuric acid as the electrolyte. In order to produce electrical energy in this battery, a chemical reaction occurs between lead and sulfuric acid.

However, they are also the traditional method of powering a pallet truck, making them cheaper than other types of batteries.

Still, they require frequent water refilling and maintenance to avoid sulfation and corrosion.Also, regarding energy density and cycle life, these batteries are far less than lithium-ion batteries.

Lithium-ion batteries

The other common type of electric pallet jack battery is lithium-ion, which uses liquid or gel as the electrolyte and lithium-containing metal oxides and graphite as anodes and cathodes to generate energy. It produces electricity via the movement of lithium ions between its electrodes.

In terms of cost, purchasing them is more expensive but has a lower total cost of ownership over time. This is due to its higher energy density and long cycle life; that is, a lithium-ion battery can last longer, and they don’t need regular maintenance.

Why choose lithium battery for electric pallet truck battery?

For an electric pallet truck battery, there are various reasons why you should choose a lithium battery. They charge more quickly than lead-acid batteries and may be recharged at any time at any level without degrading their capacity or functionality.

Also, there is no need to refill it with water or do routine maintenance, which lowers downtime and personnel expenses.

Lithium-ion batteries do not spill or pollute the area, making them safer and more eco-friendly. Finally, you’ll notice an notable increase in the mobility and efficiency of the pallet trucks due to lithium-ion batteries’ smaller size and less weight.

How long does an electric pallet truck battery last?

How long the battery will last depends on the type of battery and how you operate the electric pallet truck. Lithium-ion batteries frequently offer longer runtimes and cycle lives than lead-acid batteries.

These values, however, may vary based on the brand, capacity, and condition of the battery and truck. It is advisable to check the manufacturer’s specifications and recommendations for your specific battery and truck.

Common specifications of electric pallet jack battery

It is important to keep in mind that electric pallet jack battery specifications may differ depending on the brand, capacity, and technology of the battery.

However, here are a few typical requirements of an electric pallet jack battery you can come across:

● An electric pallet jack battery may be 24 V in terms of voltage.
● An electric pallet jack battery may have an ampere-hour rating that ranges from 20 to 30 Ah in terms of battery capacity.
● For an electric pallet jack battery, 3,500 cycles are the ideal cycle life.
● It should also not be too hefty. Therefore an electric pallet jack battery should have high energy density.
● Finally, the charging time should range from 2 to 5 hours

How are electric pallet jack batteries different from other batteries?

The fundamental distinction between an electric pallet jack battery and other batteries is that the former was created to meet the voltage, capacity, technology, and size specifications of an electric pallet jack. Other batteries may have different specs depending on their devices and applications.

Application scenarios of electric pallet jack battery

The following are some use cases for electric pallet jack batteries:

● Material handling and storage: Pallets of items are moved and stored in warehouses, distribution centers, factories, and retail establishments using electric pallet jacks. The electric pallet jack batteries are the primary source of power for lifting and moving pallets over short or long distances.

● Food and beverage delivery: Food and beverage goods are delivered to clients at restaurants, grocers, and lodging facilities using electric pallet jacks. Electric pallet jack batteries guarantee dependable and effective delivery without contamination from acid leaks or lead exposure.

● Order picking: In warehouses or fulfillment centers, orders are taken from shelves or racks using electric pallet jacks. Electric pallet jack batteries make selecting quick and precise while requiring less downtime and maintenance.

How to choose electric pallet jack battery?

Electric pallet jack batteries differ from other types of batteries in various respects. So, selecting the best one for you will likely require more study, which can be stressful. Worry less, as we have done all of that for you; thus, while selecting an electric pallet jack battery, you should consider the following factors:

Voltage
The voltage of a battery, measured in volts (V), is the electric potential difference between the battery terminals. You should select a battery that fits the voltage requirements of your electric pallet jack. As previously mentioned, most electric pallet jacks require a 24-volt battery.

Capacity
Capacity, measured in ampere-hours (Ah), is the amount of electric charge a battery can supply at a constant current.

Choosing a battery with enough capacity to power up your electric pallet jack to last you for how long you plan on using it is best. A decent rule of thumb is to choose a battery with an Ah rating that is double the capacity of your electric pallet jack.

Size
Another essential factor to always consider is the battery’s length, breadth, and height. These sizes are commonly measured in inches (in) or centimeters (cm).

Choose a battery that will fit your electric pallet jack’s charging socket or compartment. Since some electric pallet jacks come with a built-in charger, buying a battery that fits in the charging port is the best and first thing to consider when choosing your ideal one.

Technology
When selecting your ideal electric pallet jack batteries, it’s also essential to take into account the technology or the kind of chemical reaction and components used.

Lead-acid, lithium-ion, and nickel-cadmium are some dominant technologies; each type has its benefits and drawbacks.You should select an electric pallet jack battery with a chemical composition that fits your budget and operation needs.

How do you charge an electric pallet truck battery?

The specific process of charging an electric pallet jack battery varies based on the brand and technology of your pallet truck. However, the following is a general procedure:
● Drive the truck to the designated spot for charging and switch off the power after parking it.
● Carefully unhook the battery plug from the truck after opening the battery’s lid or compartment.
● Examine the plugs for any damage or corrosion and, if required, clean them.
● Make sure to connect the battery plug to the charger connector.
● Plug the charger into a power outlet and turn it on.
● Verify that the charger is working properly and displaying the proper signs.
● Leave the battery until it is fully charged or indicates it is done.
● Make sure that the charger is disconnected from the battery and plugged out of the power outlet.
● Reconnect the battery plug to the truck and close the lid or compartment of the battery.
● You should check the battery level indicator on the truck after the power switch is turned on.

How long does it take to charge a pallet jack battery?

The battery’s type, size, technology, and charger may affect how long it takes to charge a pallet jack battery. A lithium-ion battery often charge faster than a lead-acid battery because there is usually no cooling time required and a higher charging rate.

Some users claimed a lead-acid battery for a pallet jack may take 8 hours to charge and another 8 hours to cool down, but you can charge a lithium-ion battery from 0% to 85% in just 1.5 hours. But, it is wise to review the manufacturer’s recommendations and specs for your particular battery and charger.

How much does it cost to replace an electric pallet truck battery?

Several variables may affect how much replacing an electric pallet jack battery will cost. The lead-acid battery is less pricey than the lithium-ion battery, but the total cost of ownership over time could be lower for the lithium-ion battery.

On the market (both online and store), an electric pallet truck lithium-ion battery price ranges between $699 and $1299. However, you will find a lead-acid battery’s potential price range between $40 to $100.

How to maintain and store electric pallet jack battery?

Why is my battery draining so fast? Maybe everyone has asked this question. Read on and you will find that battery power consumption is inextricably linked to battery maintenance.

One of the easiest methods to maintain and store an electric pallet jack battery is to keep it clean and clear of dirt by cleaning it with a dry cloth on a regular basis. Overcharging or overdischarging a battery can have a negative impact on its performance and lifespan, so always keep an eye on the battery level.

Also, when storing, ensure to keep the battery in a cool, dry place away from heat sources or moisture. If you must remove it from the pallet truck to store it, ensure it is 40-60% charged before storing it. Finally, service the battery by having a qualified technician inspect and clean it at least once a year.