Hongyuan Machinery & Equipment Co., Ltd

The electrolyte in an electric forklifts battery is made up of sulfuric acid and water. It conducts electricity by providing for the transport of ions between positive and negative plates within the cells. In a lead acid battery, the electrolyte also participates in the chemical reaction that occurs during charging and discharging of the cells. This is apparent through hydrometer readings since the electrolyte increases in sulfuric acid concentration as the battery is charged.

Because the electrolyte is a participant in the electrochemical reaction, the concentration of sulfuric acid must not be altered from that recommended by the battery manufacturer. A battery hydrometer is used to verify the manufacturer’s specific gravity numbers when all cells are in a fully charged condition.

The Fork Loader battery loses electrolyte volume over time as a result of evaporation and hydrolysis of the water. This water loss must be made up before the level of electrolyte drops below the tops of the plates. Any electrolyte level above the tops of the plates is acceptable, as long as overfilling does not occur.

Hard–working, full–time Forktruck operation will mean weekly checking of the electrolyte level. An increase in the amount of water needed is a sign of a battery or charger problem. As a battery charges, the electrolyte level will rise. Many truck operators are encouraged to add water after charging to avoid overflow, even though watering before charging ensures complete mixing of the electrolyte. This can be important if the battery is exposed to freezing temperatures.

For whether it is needed to add acid to the battery forklift battery, under normal conditions, only water is lost during battery operation. Addition of acid is only warranted when the electrolyte has been flushed out, or cells have overflowed repeatedly during charging. If you feel that acid must be added to your battery, find a battery serviceman.

Industrial lead acid batteries that are properly cared for do not emit strong odors. What some people refer to as an acrid smell is the result of wet corrosion products left on top of the battery or between the cells. An individual cell that has failed may also emit strong sulfide odors. In either situation, attention by an experienced battery serviceman is required.