Traction battery – which one to choose and how to charge it properly?

Traction batteries are valued primarily due to their long service life, ease of use, and very wide application. Exactly that traction batteries are the basic equipment of machines necessary to operate large warehouses and production halls. However, like any equipment of this type, they require proper operation and maintenance. What you need to know about traction batteries? Check how to use them correctly!

Traction battery – what is it?

Traction batteries are batteries that power electrically driven equipment. A characteristic feature of this type of batteries is their construction. It is based on traction cells. The greater the number of these cells, the greater the voltage the battery produces. Typically, cells generating a voltage of 2 V are used. In this way, 6 V traction battery there are 3 cells, a 12 V battery - 6 cells, etc.

Apart from the cells in traction battery you will also find:

  • steel battery boxes;
  • ribs separating the cells from the battery housing;
  • bipolar pins ensuring tightness of the cells.

So constructed traction batteries are properly protected against mechanical damage, dust and moisture. Thanks to this, they are safe to use and at the same time efficient. The lifespan of these devices is usually approximately 1500 charging cycles. This makes them perfect for powering intensively used devices. Currently, they are used, among others, in forklifts, lifts and cleaning machines.

traction battery
Traction batteries are also called the heart of an electric machine. This is the most important element of the device, and efficiency, safety and failure-free operation depend on its efficiency.

What should you pay attention to when choosing a traction battery? Basic battery parameters

The most important thing you should remember when you choose traction battery, is its appropriate adjustment to the technical specificity of the device. Before purchasing, carefully check the manufacturer's recommendations.

The most important thing is the voltage level generated by the battery (expressed in volts - V), as well as its rated capacity (expressed in ampere-hours - Ah).

Also take into account the chosen manufacturing technology traction battery. It affects not only performance or method of use, but also traction battery price.

The most popular are:

  • lead-acid batteries;
  • gel batteries;
  • AGM batteries;
  • lithium-ion batteries.

The most frequently chosen types of batteries are still lead-acid batteries, in which the electrolyte is sulfuric acid. These are the cheapest batteries, but at the same time highly efficient and widely available. The only disadvantage of traction bacteria is the relatively low shock resistance and the possibility of electrolyte spillage. However, if used properly, they can last for many years.

Traction battery – how to charge it properly?

The right way to charge traction battery is important from the point of view of the life of the equipment and its proper functioning. Leaving it discharged traction battery for a long time or discharging it significantly below its rated capacity not only reduces battery performance, but may also lead to the failure of a forklift or other machine. For the safety of equipment and employees, always follow the guidelines set by the manufacturer.

When charging, take into account several different parameters of your chosen one traction battery. Those are:

  • Desired charging time – this, of course, depends on the type of charger and the traction battery itself. Be sure to follow the time recommended by the manufacturer and take the charge factor (LF) into account. The battery charging time is significantly shortened by high-frequency chargers, which additionally prevent the battery from wearing out quickly. 
  • Charging frequency – remember to charge the traction battery immediately after it is discharged. However, do not allow the battery to discharge below 20% of its rated capacity. The more often you discharge your battery below this value, the faster it will lose its performance.

Apart from the issues of proper charging traction batteries and the related issue of battery life, safety aspects are also important. Charging is associated with a significant fire hazard. During this process, significant amounts of heat are released, therefore traction batteries Always charge under supervision, in a well-ventilated room and far away from flammable substances.

In addition, you must take other precautions:

  • Always charge perfectly dry batteries.
  • Always connect the traction battery charger to an unloaded, explosion-proof electrical installation.
  • Avoid using power tools that emit smoke, sparks or dust near the charger.
  • Do not leave metal objects near the charger.

The key is not only the proper use of the product itself traction battery, but also chargers. Any mechanical damage to the housing or device cables immediately excludes the charger from use. Charging the battery despite the poor condition of the charger may result in permanent damage to the equipment, starting a fire or even an explosion.

Also remember to have it thoroughly checked at least once a year traction battery.

checking the electrolyte level in the traction battery
Their proper maintenance also has a significant impact on the performance and efficiency of traction batteries. You must remember to regularly check and replenish electrolytes.

Where to buy a traction battery? Price, availability and possible selection options

Traction battery price depends primarily on its rated capacity, manufacturing technology and voltage. Cost of the cheapest 6V batteries made using lead-acid technology range from several hundred to one and a half thousand zlotys. Other types are much more expensive traction batteries. Price these devices can reach several thousand or - in the case of equipment with higher output voltage - even several thousand zlotys. However, the several times higher price is not always commensurate with the benefits offered by this type of equipment.

You need to know that efficiency traction battery is not necessarily related to its age, but rather to the way it is used. In this case, it is sometimes profitable to buy a used one traction battery – price of such a device is much lower. Naturally, its service life will then be reduced because it is related to the number of cycles (i.e. discharging and charging the battery). However, considering the lower price of a used one traction battery, this may be a beneficial solution.

You don't know what kind traction battery to choose? Contact usand we will advise you the best solution!