Industry Application
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Can you put lithium batteries in a scissor lift?
Yes, lithium batteries are the best type of battery for scissor lifts.
What are Lithium Batteries?
Lithium batteries are a type of rechargeable battery that uses lithium as the primary electrochemical component. They offer several advantages over traditional lead-acid batteries.
Advantages:
• Higher energy density, meaning they can store more energy in a smaller and lighter package.
• Longer lifespan and slower self-discharge rate, resulting in longer periods between charges.
• No memory effect, which allows them to be partially charged without reducing their overall capacity.
• Environmentally friendly as they don’t contain toxic materials like lead or cadmium.
Disadvantages:
• Higher initial cost compared to lead-acid batteries.
What are Scissor Lifts and Their Typical Power Sources?
Scissor lifts are aerial mechanical equipment used to provide a temporary, adjustable working platform for various applications, such as construction, maintenance, and warehouse operations. They typically consist of a base, a lifting mechanism (usually hydraulic or mechanical), and a working platform.
Traditionally, scissor lifts are powered by lead-acid batteries, which are known for their durability, affordability, and ability to provide high current to hydraulic systems. However, as battery technology has advanced, lithium batteries have become an increasingly popular alternative due to their lighter weight, longer operating time, and lower maintenance requirements. An example of this is the BSLBATT lithium-ion battery.
Potential Safety Risks of Using Lithium Batteries in Scissor Lifts
Using lithium batteries in scissor lifts may pose safety risks that cannot be ignored.
Fire risk: Lithium batteries are known for their high energy density. If not handled properly, they are prone to thermal runaway, which can lead to fire or explosion.
Thermal runaway: This phenomenon occurs when an increase in temperature leads to further heat generation, resulting in a continuous rise in temperature. In lithium batteries, thermal runaway can happen due to various factors, such as internal short circuits, overcharging, or physical damage to the battery cells. Once thermal runaway begins, it can escalate rapidly, leading to the release of flammable gases, ignition, and potentially catastrophic fires.
BSLBATT has 20 years of experience in the battery field. It uses lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) combined with a battery management system (BMS) to manage battery temperature in real time. Additionally, it has UN38.3, CE, IEC, and UL certifications, along with PICC insurance, making it a perfect choice for scissor lift batteries.
Learn more: The truth about lithium battery safety.
How to determine whether the scissor lift can be installed with a lithium battery
Common scissor lift brands such as JLG Industrial, Genie, Skyjack, Haulotte, Snorkel, Taski, Niftylift, Aichi, and Dingli all offer 24V and 48V electric models. BSLBATT lithium batteries can perfectly match the scissor lifts from these brands.
For example: B-LFP-24-105, B-LFP-24-150 and B-LFP-24-280 can perfectly replace 24V lead-acid electric scissor lifts.
B-LFP-48-105, B-LFP-48-150 and B-LFP-48-280 can replace 48V lead-acid electric scissor lifts.
The larger the capacity, the longer the operating time on a full charge.
How to Get the Voltage System of Scissor Lift
- • Check the manufacturer’s user guide.
- • Visit the manufacturer’s official website for user support.
- • Open the battery compartment, locate the information on the battery and the number of batteries. Add the number of lead-acid batteries to determine the voltage; for example, adding four 6V batteries will yield a 24V system.
Proper Maintenance and Charging for Lithium Batteries in Scissor Lifts
Maintenance:
- • Lithium scissor lift batteries require little maintenance.
- • Keeping them within the 80% discharge range can significantly increase battery life.
- • Ensure that the battery compartment is well-ventilated to prevent overheating.
Charging:
- • Only use a charger designed for lithium batteries that is compatible with your scissor lift model.
- • Follow the manufacturer’s recommended charging cycles and duration.
- • Avoid overcharging or undercharging, as this will shorten the battery’s lifespan.
- • Charge the battery in a well-ventilated area, away from flammable materials.
Safety Precautions:
- • Never smoke or expose batteries to open flames or sparks, as damaged lithium batteries can cause fires.
- • Dispose of damaged or expired batteries properly in accordance with local hazardous waste regulations.
- • Keep batteries away from moisture and extreme temperatures, as these can affect their performance and safety.
By following these maintenance, charging, and safety guidelines, you can ensure the longevity and reliable operation of your scissor lift lithium battery while minimizing potential risks.
Comparing Costs: Lithium vs. Lead-Acid Batteries for Scissor Lifts
Upfront Costs:
- • Lead-acid batteries typically have a lower initial purchase price compared to lithium batteries.
- • Lithium batteries are becoming more affordable as the price of raw materials for lithium batteries decreases.
Long-term Costs:
- • Lead-acid batteries need to be replaced every 2-3 years, increasing labor and procurement costs.
- • BSL lithium batteries typically last 10 years, reducing operating costs.
- • Lithium batteries are more energy efficient, resulting in lower charging costs and potential savings on electricity bills.
- • Maintenance costs are generally lower for lithium batteries due to their low self-discharge rate and reduced need for watering or equalization.
Potential Cost Savings with Lithium Batteries:
- • Despite the higher upfront investment, lithium batteries offer significant savings over the life of the scissor lift due to their longer lifespan and lower operating/maintenance costs.
- • Savings also arise from faster charging times, longer run times, reduced downtime, and increased productivity, making them better suited for businesses operating two or three shifts.
Disadvantages of Lithium Batteries:
- • The initial purchase price of lithium batteries is still higher than that of lead-acid batteries, which can be a barrier for some businesses with tight budgets.
When considering converting your scissor lift to lithium batteries, it is important to evaluate the total cost of ownership, including upfront costs, replacement cycles, operating expenses, and potential productivity gains. While the initial investment may be higher, the long-term cost savings and operational benefits of lithium batteries can make them a more economical choice in the long run.
FAQs
Do scissor lift batteries need water?
No, the scissor lift lithium battery does not need to be added with water or acid.
Can you operate a scissor lift while charging?
You can use the scissor lift while charging, but please avoid charging and discharging at the same time for a long time, which will affect the life of the lithium battery.
How many volts is a scissor lift battery?.
The JLG ES series consists of 24V models, available in 105Ah and 220Ah capacities, while the R series features 48V models, primarily with a capacity of 220Ah.
What ruins a lithium-ion battery?
Overheating and physical damage
How many hours do scissor lift batteries last?
A fully charged battery can run for 8-15 hours depending on capacity
Can we carry rechargeable batteries in lift?
Yes, you can usually carry rechargeable batteries in a lift, with the following caveats
Battery type: Make sure the battery is suitable for transport and complies with safety regulations.
Condition: Only transport batteries that are in good condition and do not show any signs of damage or leakage.
Packaging: Batteries should be properly packaged to prevent short circuits or physical damage during transport.
Regulations: Check local regulations and guidelines regarding battery transport, especially for lithium-ion batteries or other types that may have specific restrictions.
Ventilation: Make sure the lift is well ventilated, especially when transporting multiple batteries, to mitigate any potential risks.
If you follow these guidelines, transporting rechargeable batteries in a lift should be safe.