For the majority of indoor applications, a lift truck is operated with the use of cushioned tires which mean they are made out of solid rubber tires. The pneumatic style of tires is the perfect option outdoors. Pneumatic tires could be used on asphalt surfaces and on dirt roads and are common for heavy loads.
Propane powered forklifts are believed to be safe for the most part and has a reputation for being a clean burning fuel source. If the engine or machine is not maintained or tuned up properly, then the propane powered engine could produce carbon monoxide or CO, along with other corrosive oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine which is not in optional working form may have a similar situation happen. These gases which are emitted could be really noxious within confined or incorrectly ventilated spaces.
Propane units produce less harmful gases compared to diesel and gasoline powered forklifts. Propane's chemical structure is rather simple. Since it is a gas, propane mixes really well with air, compared to gasoline or diesel and burns at a low temperature. Caustic oxides of nitrogen produced during propane combustion in the engine are a lot less compared to those emitted by a diesel or gas engine. Hence, a propane forklift's engine usually lasts a lot longer compared to a diesel or gasoline powered lift truck model.
With an internal combustion engine, air is sucked into it from the surrounding area. This air is what causes the fuel to burn. A 60 horse-power forklift must breath in 5000 cubic feet of air per minute to be able to work. Before operation, it is recommended to switch on a propane forklift outside and let it warm up for a bit. This is because of the carbon monoxide emissions as they read higher from a cold propane-powered engine or machine and become less potent after the machinery has had a chance to warm up.
Electric forklifts are not used outside in the rain because it is feared the rain may damage the battery. A hazardous situation could happen because an electric lift truck can short out due to rainwater getting in.
However, propane lift trucks work well in the rain. The propane is stored in the on-board well sealed tanks. This means there is no chance of a rainstorm interrupting the work of a driver. Propane lift trucks are really versatile and could be used both indoors and outdoors. Diesel and gasoline powered lift trucks could accidentally suffocate you with dangerous gases if they are utilized inside. A correctly tuned up and well maintained forklift is a good way to effectively and safely handle your loads.