The 36V 18-125-13 industrial battery is engineered for Yale NR040AE forklifts, offering high-capacity power (1250 Ah), durable lead-acid chemistry, and compatibility with demanding warehouse operations. Its rugged design ensures extended runtime, reduced downtime, and optimal performance in heavy-duty cycles, making it a cost-effective solution for material handling equipment.
What Are the Key Specifications of the 36V 18-125-13 Battery?
The 36V 18-125-13 delivers 1250 Ah capacity with a nominal voltage of 36 volts. It weighs approximately 2,200 lbs, features flooded lead-acid cells, and supports 1,500+ charge cycles. Its dimensions (LxWxH: 52″x28″x32″) fit Yale NR040AE battery compartments, while its high discharge rate (1,250 A) ensures stable power delivery during peak loads.
The battery’s grid structure uses 0.28″ thick plates with antimony alloy reinforcement, providing exceptional resistance to vibration-induced damage. Its electrolyte system includes polypropylene separators that prevent internal short circuits while allowing efficient ion transfer. The unit comes pre-equipped with heavy-duty lead terminals (SAE standard) that support 500+ amp charging currents without overheating. For cold storage applications, optional thermal jackets maintain optimal operating temperatures down to -20°F.
How Does Temperature Affect Its Efficiency?
Below 32°F, capacity drops ≈20%; above 104°F, water consumption triples, accelerating plate corrosion. Insulate battery compartments in cold environments and use cooling fans in high-heat settings. Monitor specific gravity (1.265–1.299) to adjust watering schedules seasonally.
In sub-freezing conditions, electrolyte viscosity increases by 40%, reducing ion mobility and causing voltage sag during sudden load demands. Facilities operating in Arctic climates should implement battery warm-up protocols: 30-minute idle charging before shifts reactivates cell chemistry. Conversely, desert operations require daily specific gravity checks using refractometers – when readings exceed 1.315, immediate watering and reduced charge rates (C/10 instead of C/5) prevent accelerated grid corrosion. Data logs from Nevada mining sites show proper thermal management extends battery life by 18 months in 100°F+ environments.
| Temperature Range | Capacity Retention | Maintenance Action |
|---|---|---|
| 32°F to 50°F | 85% | Increase charge voltage by 5% |
| 50°F to 86°F | 100% | Standard protocol |
| 86°F to 104°F | 92% | Water every 3 cycles |
What Recycling Options Exist for Spent Units?
98% of lead-acid batteries are recyclable. Partner with ISA-certified recyclers like Battery Solutions or Call2Recycle. Core charge programs ($150–$300) incentivize returns. Never landfill—lead leakage incurs EPA fines up to $37,500 per violation.
Modern recycling smelters recover 99.7% of lead content through pyrometallurgical processes, with closed-loop systems capturing sulfur dioxide emissions. Major retailers like AutoZone and NAPA offer free drop-off programs, while industrial users can schedule bulk pickups through companies like EnerSys. Recyclers typically pay $0.22–$0.35 per pound for spent units, creating potential revenue streams. The recycled polypropylene cases get repurposed into new battery containers, completing the circular economy loop.
“The 36V 18-125-13 remains the backbone of Yale’s electric forklift fleet. While lithium-ion gains traction, its ability to handle 12-hour shifts without voltage sag is unmatched. We recommend pairing it with opportunity chargers in multi-shift operations.” — Michael Torres, Senior Power Systems Engineer, Redway Industrial Solutions.
- How often should I water the 36V 18-125-13 battery?
- Check water levels weekly, adding distilled water after charging. Maintain plates ¼” below the fill well to prevent overflow.
- Can this battery power non-Yale equipment?
- Yes, if voltage and dimensions match. Consult OEM specs to confirm compatibility with Crown, Hyster, or Raymond models.
- What’s the average replacement timeline?
- 3–5 years with proper maintenance. Track capacity loss via monthly discharge tests—replace when capacity falls below 80%.
