Electrical – 48v electric forklift battery charger with 240v power source

batteries

I have 2 electric forklift experts giving me conflicting information and I'd like to clear up the issue. I acquired some 48 volt electric forklifts whose battery banks have a listed capacity of 1100ah @6 hour rate, and the chargers they came with require 3-phase wiring, which is not an available option in my area. I tried to shop for a compatible charger that can use a 240 volt power source and it's on this subject that the local experts disagree.
"Expert A" told me that his shop sells a 240 volt charger that will work.
"Expert B" said his company doesn't offer such a charger because, while technically possible, it would be unethical to sell because its regular use would shorten the lives of the batteries excessively. Expert A says that his 240 volt charger wouldn't affect the longevity of the batteries. Who is correct? That charger and the batteries are very expensive and heavy so I don't want to make an uninformed decision. Any Clarification would be greatly appreciated.

Best Answer

Without knowing the details of either charger, I can't make any real recommendation, but I wouldn't buy Expert B's charger since he says it is not suitable.

Howver, the charger you select should be "smart", and provide a "three stage" charging profile - bulk, absorbtion and float. Such a charger will not over-charge the battery, and should have a charge current capability suitable for the rating of the battery it will charge.

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