Phone: 608-927-6695 Sales: sales@bluelinebattery.com
FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS
GENERAL
Q: What is a lithium-ion battery?
A lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery is a rechargeable battery that uses lithium ions to store and release electrical energy. It is known for its high energy density, long cycle life, and minimal maintenance.
Q: How is lithium-ion different from lead-acid?
A. Lithium-ion batteries offer longer lifespan, faster charging, no maintenance, consistent power output, and better energy efficiency compared to lead-acid batteries.
PERFORMANCE & OPERATION
Q: How do your batteries facilitate fast charging?
A. Our batteries use multiple charge plugs to facilitate parallel inputs to the battery.
Q: How long does a lithium-ion battery last?
A. Most lithium-ion batteries last 2,000 to 4,000 charge cycles—typically 5–10 years depending on usage and care.
Q: Can lithium-ion batteries be opportunity charged?
A. Yes. Lithium-ion batteries are designed for opportunity charging (short charges during breaks), which improves uptime and flexibility.
Q: Do lithium-ion batteries lose power as they discharge?
A. No. They maintain consistent voltage throughout the discharge cycle, unlike lead-acid which drops in performance as it discharges.
Q: Do I need to cool the battery after charging?
A. No. Lithium-ion batteries generate less heat and do not require a cool-down period after charging.
Q: Do our batteries /power systems have ballasted weight requirements?
A. Yes, the systems are all designed to meet weight requirements but check your truck’s weight requirements before installing the pack.
Q: How do your batteries handle extreme temperatures?
A. Our batteries are suited for both cold and extreme heat situations.
Q: Are your batteries compatible with my truck's state-of-charge indicator?
A. Yes, the state-of-charge indicator will read accurately.
Q: Are your batteries able to communicate properly with our forklift and charger?
A. Yes, upon request we integrate a CANbus enabled Battery Management System to ensure the battery meets applicable communication protocols.
MAINTENANCE & SAFETY
Q: Do lithium-ion batteries require maintenance?
A. No regular maintenance is needed—no watering, cleaning, or equalizing required. They do require regular charging.
Q: Are lithium-ion batteries safe?
A. Yes. Blue Line and other reputable manufacturers use smart Battery Management Systems (BMS) that monitor temperature, voltage, current, and prevent overcharging or overheating.
Q: What PPE is needed when handling lithium-ion batteries?
A. Basic PPE like gloves and safety glasses are typically sufficient. Always follow manufacturer guidelines and facility safety protocols.
Q: How safe are your industrial lithium-ion batteries?
A. Our batteries have multiple built-in safety features including Battery Management Systems, insulated compartments, user-replaceable fuses, and thick steel-cased walls to ensure safety in any circumstance.
CHARGING
Q: What chargers can your systems use?
A. Approved charger families (with correct firmware & wiring): Ecotec, EcoCharge, Webasto, PosiCharge, and ACT. Any other brand must receive written approval from Blue Line Battery before use.
Q: How long does it take to fully charge?
A. Typically 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on battery size and charger power.
Q: Can I partially charge a lithium-ion battery?
A. Yes. Partial and opportunity charging will not damage the battery or reduce its lifespan.
COST & ROI
Q: Are lithium-ion batteries more expensive than lead-acid?
A. Upfront, yes. But over time, they offer better ROI through lower maintenance, fewer replacements, higher efficiency, and energy savings.
Q: What’s the payback period?
A. Most customers experience payback within 12–24 months, depending on operational intensity and energy costs.
ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE
Q: Are lithium-ion batteries environmentally friendly?
A. Yes. They are more energy-efficient, generate less waste, and don’t emit harmful gases. Many are also recyclable.
SUPPORT & CUSTOMIZATION
Q: Can the battery be customized for my equipment?
A. Yes. Blue Line Battery specializes in custom-fit lithium-ion solutions for nearly any material handling or industrial application.