Dual purpose power supply

Hi all
I'm still in the planning stages for my first attempt at CNC, which
will be a plasma table with a cutting envelope of 3Mx1.5M.

I have gained a great deal from lurking here for a while but now need
specific info/advice.

I have read that it is possible to make a 70ish volt power supply
from a 110 transformer(I'm in the UK), I have recently been given a
slightly tired electric forklift which would be very usefull for
lifting large sheets on to the yet to be built table.
There is a slight drawback, it is missing its charger. It has 36
cells giving 72 volts, the best quote so far for a charger s/h is
£350, as I don't know if the batts are going to give enough duty for
the little use I will give it I'm reluctant to buy one(new cells
around £1500 or $2500 with VAT).

To the question. Can I make a power supply that will give around
72volt 100amp out of a suitable sized 110 transformer that I can use
to try out these batteries and later for use on a table, if it is
possible I would greatly appreciate pointing in the right direction
for info.
I realise this would be over kill for running 3 steppers but I think
I know where I can get a big transformer for pennies.
Alternatively could I have it for charging as well as for stepper
power.
I hope this is not OT as I don't currently have anything built, if it
is I apologise in advance.
I will reply with questions but not to thank you individually to save
drawn out thread and space in the archives.
Be assured any help will be most appreciated.

Scott
ps I get daily digest so there may be a delay with my responses