Why Choose Lead-Acid Battery Power?

Lead-acid batteries are one of the most popular in the world due to their low cost to produce. With a global market value of almost $40bn each year, lead-acid batteries are still a powerful and popular source of energy. Lead-acid batteries were the first rechargeable batteries ever produced. So, why choose lead-acid battery power? We will explore this topic below.

What Is a Lead-Acid Battery?

Lead-acid batteries are wet-cell batteries most often found in automobiles. They allow for high surge currents and have a low density of energy, which enables them to start an engine.

Their surge currents also mean they’re popularly used in emergency backup systems to kick-start generators and vital equipment. Also, forklift trucks have another unique use for lead-acid batteries: The weight of the lead-acid battery allows for counterbalance.

Why Choose Lead-Acid Battery Power?

With the proven track record of lead-acid batteries, electrification is an easy choice with a relatively low cost of entry.

• Options that fit – Traditional lead-acid and newer options like thin plate pure lead come with varying cost, maintenance, operator involvement and run time to provide an option to fit your unique requirements.
• Emissions under control – Minimal emissions during operation mean lead-acid batteries can be a path to regulation compliance.
• Ready for more than one shift – Extra power units and multi-battery packs enable you to go further, and operators can be more productive.
• Disciplined operators make the difference – Properly adhering to charging and maintenance procedures gets the most out of lead-acid batteries.
• Tried and true electrification option – An over 50-year history in material handling operations means you can take advantage of a proven, widely adopted solution.
• Lowest acquisition cost – Minimize upfront investment with the lowest-cost path to electrify your fleet.

Advantages and Benefits Of Lead-Acid Batteries

Many benefits come with using lead-acid batteries. Their biggest advantage is their low cost, making them an excellent choice if working on a tight budget.

They’re also rechargeable and have a long life cycle when using and recharging depending on the application and operating temperatures.

The performance of lead-acid batteries is consistent. This consistency makes them an excellent choice for those that need a battery that will perform well but won’t fail. It makes them perfect for situations where reliability is important.

Disadvantages and Negatives

Lead-acid batteries also have their disadvantages. One of the biggest disadvantages is that they have a short lift span when stored and not charged properly. Lead-acid batteries also have a low tolerance for overcharging, damaging the battery, and leaving it unable to charge.

The biggest disadvantage of using a lead-acid battery is that it’s very corrosive. It can be problematic if the necessary precautions aren’t taken to avoid contact with the electrolyte. When in contact with skin, the battery will burn and cause long-term damage, especially in an acidic state.

Do you have the space and maintenance capacity?

Lead-acid batteries require the most maintenance of any power choice, including watering, equalizing, cleaning and more, so be sure your operation has facilities to accommodate regular maintenance and charging.

Gregory Poole Lift Systems is here to help you evaluate your lift truck power options.

Contact us today to get started on the right path for your lift truck needs.