What Is 36V 18-125-17 Clark TM20 Forklift Battery?
The 36V 18-125-17 Clark TM20 Forklift Battery is a lead-acid traction battery designed for Clark TM20 series electric forklifts. Operating at 36 volts, it delivers reliable power for medium-duty material handling, with capacities typically ranging from 160Ah to 700Ah. Built to BS industrial standards, it uses electrolytic lead (99.994% purity) and reinforced plate grids for 1,200+ charge cycles. The 18-125-17 model features a 2V per cell architecture, requiring regular watering and equalization charging to prevent sulfation. Pro Tip: Always verify battery compartment dimensions before replacement—legacy TM20 forklifts have 20-30mm tolerance limits for length/width adjustments.
36V 250Ah LiFePO4 Forklift Battery
What are the key specifications of 36V Clark TM20 batteries?
Clark TM20’s 36V batteries utilize lead-acid chemistry with 18 cells (2V each), delivering 600-1,200 cycles at 80% DoD. Standard models offer 420-525Ah capacity, weighing 900-1,200kg. Terminal voltage stays above 31.5V under 500A loads, crucial for hydraulic pump operations.
These batteries require 8-10 hour charge times using 36V chargers with 40-60A output. Runtime varies by application—a 420Ah unit typically powers 6-8 hours of continuous pallet handling. Compared to lithium alternatives, lead-acid units have 30% lower upfront costs but require weekly maintenance. Pro Tip: Install a battery monitoring system to track electrolyte levels and cell balance remotely.
How does the 18-125-17 model differ from other Clark batteries?
The 18-125-17 designation specifies cell arrangement (18 cells), tray dimensions (125cm length), and terminal type (17mm studs). Unlike generic 36V batteries, this model’s intercell connectors resist vibration-induced fractures common in forklift applications.
| Feature | 18-125-17 | Standard 36V |
|---|---|---|
| Cycle Life | 1,200 cycles | 800 cycles |
| Weight | 1,150kg | 980kg |
Its steel-reinforced casing withstands 5G impact forces, meeting ISO 13534 standards. For operations in cold storage (-20°C), optional polyethylene jackets maintain electrolyte temperatures above 10°C. Real-world example: A logistics center using six 18-125-17 units achieved 18-month replacement cycles instead of the usual 12 months through scheduled equalization.
What maintenance ensures optimal TM20 battery performance?
Three core practices dominate: weekly specific gravity checks (1.280±0.010 at 27°C), monthly terminal cleaning with sodium bicarbonate solution, and quarterly capacity tests. Always maintain electrolyte 10-15mm above plates—underfilling accelerates plate corrosion, while overfilling causes acid spillage during charging.
Equalization every 50 cycles is mandatory, applying 2.4V/cell for 3 hours to desulfate plates. Comparison of maintenance intervals:
| Task | Lead-Acid | LiFePO4 |
|---|---|---|
| Watering | Weekly | Never |
| Equalization | Monthly | Not required |
Pro Tip: Use thermal imaging during charging—hotspots above 55°C indicate failing cells needing replacement.
Battery Expert Insight
FAQs
Yes, but requires compartment modifications—LiFePO4 batteries need 40% less space but demand upgraded BMS and 36V lithium-specific chargers.
How long does a 18-125-17 battery last per charge?
5-7 hours under typical 1,500kg load cycles. Capacity decreases 15% annually without proper equalization.