A power supply unit that converts alternating current from the grid into direct current to replenish a depleted battery. It regulates the charging voltage and current to match the specific chemistry and capacity of the cells. Advanced units monitor temperature, state of charge and internal resistance to adjust the charge profile dynamically, preventing thermal runaway and extending the lifespan of the pack.
Hook the forklift up to the high-frequency battery charger before the end of the shift so we don't start tomorrow on a dead pack.
Using a charger with the wrong voltage or a mismatched charging algorithm can boil the electrolyte in lead-acid systems or cause lithium cells to vent violently.
Do not mix it up with
- Invertor: An invertor converts DC from a battery into AC for the grid or a load, doing the exact opposite of a charger.
Related terms
Battery
An energy storage device that converts chemical energy directly into electrical energy.
Battery pack
A fully integrated enclosure containing multiple battery cells, wiring, and control electronics.
Li-ion
Lithium-ion, the dominant rechargeable battery technology using lithium ions to carry charge.