Lithium batteries are quicker to charge and can save you money by not having to rely on watering, cleaning, and equalising required by other types of forklift batteries. You also get longer, and consistent performance compared to other batteries. Lithium-ion batteries contain on average three times more energy than standard batteries, provide consistent voltage, and do not slow down your machine as they discharge.
They are safer to use for your staff and a better option for the environment, having a lifecycle up to 4 times longer and are up to 30% more energy efficient, they are safer and greener because they do not emit CO2 gas, and there is no risk of acid spills.
Lead-acid batteries need 8 hours to charge and another 8 hours to cool down, whilst a lithium-ion battery can be fully charged in as little as an hour, making more efficient use of opportunity charging during breaks, resulting in an ideal choice for shift operations.
How can lithium-ion batteries contribute to a cost-efficient warehouse operation?
You will save money you would have spent on energy for charging batteries
Less time and labour involved by workers swapping out lead-acid batteries
Less time and labour spent maintaining and watering lead-acid batteries
Reduced waste of energy (a lead-acid battery normally uses up to 50% of its energy through heat, while a lithium battery uses only up to 15%)
Lithium-ion batteries massively helped the explosion of sales in the personal electronics industry but have not had the same impact on industrial equipment, but is changing as more businesses use this technology, so swapping to lithium-ion batteries now can be an investment in the future.
Lead acid vs. Lithium-ion forklift battery – which is better?
Lead-acid batteries come in a case with an electrolyte, water, and sulphuric acid mixture, and they look genuinely like any standard car battery. These batteries generate chemical reactions between the lead plates and the sulphuric acid and require maintenance and water top ups. This type of battery has been refined over the years, but the continuous maintenance can be a drawback. Lithium-ion technology was introduced in consumer markets in 1991. Lithium-ion batteries can be found in most of our portable devices, like smartphones, tablets, and cameras. They also power electric cars, like Tesla.
Generally, a major factor in choosing batteries is the price. Lead-acid forklift batteries are cheaper than lithium-ion ones but, because of its durability and convenience, with the lithium-ion option, you will save money in the long run, so they are a safe investment?