Why Does My Forklift Smell Like Rotten Eggs?
When operating an electric forklift, it is important to be aware of anything that may seem unusual as it may suggest a fault with the forklift. An issue that is sometimes experienced by customers is that their forklift starts producing a smell of rotten eggs. While gas and diesel forklift exude fumes, they do not smell like rotten eggs so it is important to stop using the forklift immediately once this aroma can be smelt. In this article, we explain what this smell means and what you need to do once it can be smelt.
What Does The Smell Of Rotten Eggs Mean For My Forklift?
The smell of “Rotten Eggs” is often a result of sulphur gas being released into the air. In a forklift, this gas is produced as a result of a dead battery cell or battery cell being overcharged. Sulfuric acid is found in some forklift batteries but does not pose a risk unless the smell of rotten eggs becomes apparent. As a current goes through a battery, it will continue to push a charge through to each cell even if one has depleted. As a charge is pushed through to a depleted cell, it starts to get hot and boil the sulfuric acid inside. Once this happens, it causes the battery to start producing sulfuric gas which then accounts for the smell of rotten eggs.
What Should I Do If My Forklift Smells Like Rotten Eggs?
If your forklift is starting to smell like rotten eggs, you should stop use of the machine immediately. The forklift should be turned off and allowed to cool. Your local forklift service technician or forklift battery supplier should then be called for them to attend site. Ensure that no one uses the forklift whilst awaiting the technician. A battery technician will then be able to identify and remove the affected battery cell and replace it with a new one. Once the new cell has been fitted, it is important to check that the battery is still charged.
As with most forklift issues, once the cause has been identified there is not much that can be done on the operator’s side to amend the issue. Occasionally, the issue may be able to be rectified by the operator, but in the event of having smelt sulphur/rotten eggs, a technician should be called out as soon as possible. By following these steps, you can help prevent any damage being done to both the forklift and operator.