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What Are Specs Of 48V 24-85-21 Hyster E50Z Battery?
The 48V 24-85-21 Hyster E50Z battery is a deep-cycle lead-acid configuration designed for electric forklifts. This 48V system typically comprises 24 cells (2V per cell) with a 21-hour rate capacity of 85Ah. It features AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) technology for spill-proof operation, centralized front terminals for easy maintenance, and ABS casing for vibration resistance. Standard dimensions approximate 800L × 600W × 300H mm, weighing ~250kg. Operating range spans -15°C to 50°C, with a 10-year design life under proper maintenance.
How to Determine the Year of Your Hyster Forklift by Serial Number
What’s the significance of “24-85-21” in the model code?
The code denotes 24 cells arranged in series, 85Ah capacity at 21-hour discharge. At 2V per cell, 24 cells create 48V nominal voltage. The 21-hour rate indicates 4A continuous draw (85Ah ÷ 21h = 4.05A) for full capacity utilization—critical for forklift endurance calculations.
Deep Dive: The “24-85-21” identifier directly ties to performance benchmarks. Each 2V AGM cell delivers 85Ah when discharged over 21 hours at 25°C—equivalent to a 4.05A load. Pro Tip: Real capacity drops at higher currents; expect ~75Ah at the 5-hour rate (17A) common in Hyster E50Z operations. Thermal management is vital—capacity decreases 1% per °C below 20°C. For example, at -10°C, effective capacity shrinks to 68Ah (85Ah × 0.7). Transitional design elements like centralized venting (mentioned in technical specs) prevent acid stratification during partial-state charging cycles.
How does cell arrangement affect performance?
Series-connected 24 cells deliver required 48V, but parallel groups could boost capacity. However, AGM batteries prioritize voltage stability over capacity scaling in Hyster’s design.
Deep Dive: The 2×12 cell block configuration balances space efficiency and thermal dissipation in E50Z battery compartments. Unlike lithium alternatives, lead-acid cells can’t be densely packed due to gas recombination needs. Pro Tip: Never mix old/new cells—voltage imbalance accelerates sulfation. A real-world analogy: Think of the 24-cell array like a freight train—all cars (cells) must pull equally to maintain speed (voltage). If one weakens, the whole system strains. Transitionally, maintenance practices become paramount—monthly equalization charges at 2.4V/cell (57.6V total) help prevent stratification.
| Parameter | 24-Cell AGM | 4x12V Blocks | 
|---|---|---|
| Maintenance | Cell-level checks | Block monitoring only | 
| Failure Impact | Single cell fails entire system | 1 block fails, 75% voltage remains | 
What distinguishes AGM chemistry in this application?
AGM’s immobilized electrolyte prevents acid spills during forklift tilting. Fiberglass mats between plates absorb electrolyte, enabling safe operation at angles up to 45°.
Deep Dive: Compared to flooded lead-acid, AGM batteries in the E50Z exhibit 30% lower self-discharge (1.5% monthly vs. 2.5%). They also tolerate partial discharges better—400 cycles at 50% DoD versus 250 cycles for flooded types. But what happens during overcharging? AGM’s recombinant efficiency (98%+) minimizes water loss, yet requires precise voltage control—charge limiters at 57.6V ±0.5V are mandatory. For context, a faulty regulator charging at 60V would boil off electrolytes in 15 cycles. Transitionally, users must verify charger compatibility—Hyster OEM units include temperature-compensated algorithms.
How does capacity correlate with shift duration?
85Ah capacity supports 6–8 hours of moderate E50Z operation. Energy consumption varies with load weight—a 1,500kg lift at 5km/h draws ~20A, depleting the battery in ~4 hours.
Deep Dive: Calculating runtime requires analyzing duty cycles. If the E50Z’s motor draws 30A during acceleration phases (20% of operating time) and 15A cruising (80%), average consumption is 18A. With an 85Ah battery, theoretical runtime is 4.7 hours (85Ah ÷ 18A). Practically speaking, derate by 20% for battery aging and auxiliary loads (lights, hydraulics), yielding 3.8 hours. Pro Tip: Implement opportunity charging during breaks—a 15-minute boost at 30A replenishes 7.5Ah, extending shift time by 25 minutes.
| Load (%) | Current Draw | Runtime (h) | 
|---|---|---|
| 50 | 17A | 5.0 | 
| 75 | 25A | 3.4 | 
| 100 | 33A | 2.6 | 
What maintenance ensures maximum lifespan?
Monthly equalization charges at 57.6V and terminal cleaning are essential. Post-discharge recharge within 24 hours prevents sulfation—the prime cause of capacity loss.
Deep Dive: AGM batteries thrive on preventive care. Use a regulated equalizer to apply 57.6V for 2–4 hours monthly, redistributing electrolyte concentration. Terminal corrosion—often appearing as white powder—reduces conductivity by 40% if unchecked. Clean quarterly with baking soda solution and coat with anti-oxidant grease. Transitionally, storage practices matter—at 30% SoC in cool (10°C) environments slows self-dischapse. For example, a properly stored E50Z battery retains 70% charge after 6 months versus 30% at 25°C.
Redway Battery Expert Insight
FAQs
Yes, with BMS-compatible LiFePO4 batteries and charger upgrades. Ensure the motor controller accepts 48–58.4V input ranges common in lithium systems.
How often should I water AGM batteries?
Never—AGM is sealed. Attempting to add water voids warranties and risks internal shorts from overfilling.
What’s the replacement cost for 48V 24-85-21?
Approximately $2,500–$3,800 USD, varying by brand. Factor in core charges ($400–$800) when returning old units.
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