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What Is Forklift Battery 18-85-27, 36V 1105Ah?
Forklift Battery 18-85-27, 36V 1105Ah is a lead-acid battery designed for industrial electric forklifts. Its model number (18-85-27) indicates dimensions (18″L x 8.5″W x 27″H), while 36V 1105Ah specifies voltage and capacity. These batteries power Class I-III forklifts, offering 8–10 hours of runtime. Regular watering and equalization charging are critical for longevity. Lithium-ion upgrades (e.g., 36V 105Ah LiFePO4) reduce weight by 40% but cost 2–3x more upfront.
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What does the model number 18-85-27 signify?
The 18-85-27 code denotes the battery’s physical size: 18 inches in length, 8.5 inches in width, and 27 inches in height. These standardized dimensions ensure compatibility with forklift battery compartments. Pro Tip: Always verify tray measurements—mismatched batteries risk improper connections or ventilation issues.
How does 36V 1105Ah capacity impact forklift performance?
A 36V 1105Ah rating delivers 39.78 kWh (36V × 1105Ah), enabling full-shift operation for 2–3-ton forklifts. Higher Ah extends runtime but increases weight (~1,250 kg). For example, a 36V 1105Ah battery supports 350–400 lifts/day in warehouses. Warning: Avoid discharging below 20% SOC—deep cycles accelerate plate sulfation in lead-acid batteries.
| Chemistry | Cycle Life | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Flooded Lead-Acid | 1,500 cycles | 1,250 kg |
| LiFePO4 | 3,000+ cycles | 750 kg |
What applications use 18-85-27 36V batteries?
These batteries power electric counterbalance forklifts, reach trucks, and pallet jacks in warehouses, ports, and manufacturing plants. They’re ideal for multi-shift operations requiring high energy density. Pro Tip: For cold storage (-20°C), opt for AGM variants—they tolerate temperature swings better than flooded models.
How do lead-acid and lithium-ion 36V batteries compare?
Lead-acid 36V batteries have lower upfront costs ($2,500–$4,000) but require weekly maintenance. Lithium-ion alternatives ($8,000–$12,000) offer faster charging (<2 hours) and 80% depth-of-discharge. A distribution center switching to LiFePO4 reported 23% productivity gains from eliminating equalization cycles.
| Feature | Lead-Acid | Lithium-ion |
|---|---|---|
| Charge Time | 8–10 hours | 1.5–2 hours |
| Lifespan | 3–5 years | 8–10 years |
What maintenance ensures maximum lifespan?
Weekly watering (using distilled water) and monthly equalization are mandatory for flooded lead-acid batteries. Keep terminals clean to prevent voltage drops. Real-World Example: A logistics firm extended battery life by 18% using automated watering systems.
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Redway Battery Expert Insight
FAQs
Most lithium batteries need a compatible charger and BMS communication setup. Some forklifts require controller reprogramming—consult Redway’s compatibility checklist first.
How often should I test specific gravity in lead-acid batteries?
Measure weekly using a hydrometer. Cells below 1.225 indicate sulfation—perform equalization immediately.
What’s the ROI timeline for switching to lithium?
Typically 2–3 years via reduced maintenance/energy costs. High-utilization operations see faster payback—one beverage distributor recovered costs in 14 months.


