Forklifts, when used in indoor applications, are usually operated on cushioned tires which are made out of solid rubber. The pneumatic style of tires is the best option for outdoor applications. Pneumatic tires could be utilized on dirt roads and on asphalt surfaces and are common for heavy cargo.
For the most part, propane powered equipment is trusted to be safe. Propane has the reputation for being a clean burning fuel source. If the engine or machinery is not properly maintained or tuned, then the propane powered engine could emit CO or carbon monoxide, along with other corrosive oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine which is not in optional working form may result in a similar situation. These gases that are produced could be very harmful in incorrectly ventilated or confined spaces.
Compared to gasoline and diesel powered forklifts, propane models emit less harmful gases. Propane has a simple chemical structure. As it is a gas, propane mixes really well with air, compared to diesel or gasoline and burns at a low temperature. Caustic oxides of nitrogen produced during propane combustion in the engine are a lot less than those emitted by a diesel or gas engine. Hence, a propane lift truck's engine typically lasts much longer compared to a diesel or gasoline powered lift truck unit.
With an IC engine, air is sucked into it from the surrounding area. This air is what makes the fuel burn. A 60 horse-power forklift has to breath in 5000 cubic feet of air for every minute to be able to work. Before operation, it is recommended to switch on a propane forklift outside and allow it warm up for a bit. This is due to the carbon monoxide emissions as they read higher from a cold propane-powered engine or machinery and become less intoxicating once the equipment has had a chance to warm up.
It is vital to remember that electric or battery powered forklifts can not be used outdoors in the rain for fear of battery damage if they get wet. A dangerous situation could happen because an electric lift truck can short out due to rainwater getting in.
Propane lift trucks however work well in the rain. The propane is stored in sealed tanks which are placed on the rear of the lift truck. This means there is no possibility of a rainstorm interrupting the work of an operator. Propane forklifts are really versatile and could be used both outdoors and indoors. Gasoline and diesel powered lift trucks can suffocate you accidentally with harmful gases if they are utilized indoors. A correctly tuned up and well maintained lift truck is really a good way to safely and effectively handle your loads.