The 36V 18-85-13 industrial battery is a high-performance, deep-cycle lead-acid battery designed for Raymond’s RTW-C30TT electric forklifts. It delivers 850 Ah capacity, ensuring extended runtime for heavy-duty material handling. Its rugged construction withstands industrial environments, while optimized charging compatibility minimizes downtime. Proper maintenance ensures 1,500+ cycles, making it a cost-effective power solution for warehouses and logistics operations.
How Does the 36V 18-85-13 Battery Enhance Raymond RTW-C30TT Performance?
The 36V 18-85-13 battery provides consistent voltage output, enabling the Raymond RTW-C30TT to lift up to 3,000 lbs efficiently. Its high energy density supports 8–10 hours of continuous operation, even under heavy loads. Advanced plate design reduces resistance, preventing voltage drops during peak demand. This ensures smoother acceleration and precise hydraulic control, critical for narrow-aisle forklift operations.
What Are the Key Specifications of the 36V 18-85-13 Battery?
This battery features a 36V nominal voltage, 850 Ah capacity, and 18-cell lead-acid composition. Dimensions are 33.1” L x 19.1” W x 28.9” H, weighing 2,450 lbs. It supports 80% depth of discharge (DoD) and requires a 36V charger with 150–200A output. Terminal type is SAE stud, and operating temperatures range from -4°F to 122°F.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 36V |
| Capacity | 850 Ah |
| Weight | 2,450 lbs |
| Dimensions | 33.1” x 19.1” x 28.9” |
The 36V 18-85-13’s 80% DoD rating allows operators to utilize more stored energy without compromising battery health. Its SAE stud terminals ensure secure connections, reducing resistance-related energy loss. The battery’s wide temperature tolerance makes it suitable for cold storage facilities and outdoor yards. Compared to standard models, its 18-cell configuration provides 12% higher energy retention over 500 cycles, as tested under ANSI BCI standards.
Which Charging Practices Maximize the Battery’s Lifespan?
Use a 36V smart charger with temperature compensation to avoid under/overcharging. Recharge when capacity drops to 20–30%, never below 10%. Equalize monthly to balance cell voltages. Keep terminals clean and apply anti-corrosion gel. Post-charging, cool the battery for 2–4 hours before reuse. These steps prevent sulfation and extend cycle life by up to 30%.
Smart chargers with adaptive algorithms adjust voltage based on battery temperature—critical for preventing overheating in summer. For example, at 95°F, the charger should reduce voltage by 3mV per cell. Always follow the 80/20 rule: avoid discharging below 20% capacity and charging above 80% without equalization. A three-stage charging process (bulk, absorption, float) is ideal. Bulk charging at 150A restores 70% capacity quickly, while absorption phase fine-tunes voltage for cell balance. Weekly equalization cycles at 2.4V per cell dissolve sulfate crystals, maintaining 95% capacity through 1,000 cycles.
Why Is Proper Maintenance Critical for This Industrial Battery?
Regular maintenance prevents capacity loss and premature failure. Check electrolyte levels weekly, topping up with distilled water as needed. Inspect for cracks, leaks, or terminal corrosion. Perform load tests quarterly to identify weak cells. Keep the battery clean and dry; dirt accumulation can cause short circuits. Adhering to Raymond’s maintenance guidelines ensures OSHA compliance and safety.
How Do Temperature Conditions Affect Battery Efficiency?
Extreme cold (-4°F) reduces capacity by 30–40% due to slowed chemical reactions. Heat (above 104°F) accelerates water loss and plate corrosion. Ideal operating range is 50°F–86°F. Use insulated battery compartments in cold environments and avoid rapid charging in high heat. Thermal management systems can mitigate temperature-related performance drops.
What Safety Protocols Are Recommended for Handling This Battery?
Always wear PPE (gloves, goggles) during maintenance. Use certified lifting equipment to handle the 2,450-lb unit. Avoid open flames—hydrogen gas emissions are explosive. Ensure adequate ventilation in charging areas. Follow lockout/tagout procedures during servicing. Never mix old and new batteries in the same forklift to prevent imbalance.
“The 36V 18-85-13 is engineered for Raymond’s high-intensity forklifts, but its real value lies in adaptive charging. Operators using pulse-based chargers report 15% longer lifespan compared to traditional models. Always prioritize OEM-approved charging systems—third-party units often lack the voltage precision needed for these cells.”
— Michael Torres, Senior Engineer at Redway Power Systems
Conclusion
The 36V 18-85-13 battery is a robust, high-capacity power source tailored for Raymond RTW-C30TT forklifts. By adhering to optimized charging routines, temperature controls, and maintenance schedules, businesses can maximize uptime and ROI. Its design balances energy density and durability, making it indispensable for demanding warehouse applications.
FAQ
- How often should I water the battery cells?
- Check electrolyte levels weekly. Add distilled water if plates are exposed, but avoid overfilling—levels should be 1/8” below the vent well.
- Can this battery be used in other Raymond models?
- Yes, it’s compatible with Raymond 30-Series forklifts, including RTW30 and RTT30, provided voltage and dimensions match the compartment.
- What’s the average replacement cost?
- Prices range from $4,200–$5,800, depending on vendor and core exchange programs. Expect 5–7 years of service with proper care.
