Forklifts, when used in indoor operations, are usually operated on cushioned tires that are made out of solid rubber. The pneumatic type of tires is the best option for outdoor operations. Pneumatic tires could be utilized on asphalt surfaces and on dirt roads and are common for heavy cargo.
Propane powered lift trucks are believed to be safe for the most part and has a reputation for being a clean burning fuel source. If the engine or equipment is not correctly tuned or maintained, then the propane powered engine can produce carbon monoxide or CO, along with other corrosive oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine that is not in optional running form can have a similar situation occur. These produced gases could be extremely harmful in confined or incorrectly ventilated spaces.
Compared to diesel and gasoline powered lift trucks, propane models emit less harmful gases. Propane has a simple chemical structure. As it is a gas, propane burns at a low temperature and mixes well with air, compared to gasoline or diesel. Corrosive oxides of nitrogen produced during propane combustion in the engine are a lot less than those emitted by a gas or diesel engine. Hence, the engine of a propane lift truck typically lasts a lot longer than 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 needs to breath in 5000 cubic feet of air for every minute to be able to operate. Before operation, it is better to switch on a propane lift truck outside and let it warm up for a bit. This is because of the carbon monoxide emissions since they read higher from a cold propane-powered engine or machine and become less intoxicating once the machine has had a chance to warm up.
It is important to remember that battery powered or electric forklifts could not be utilized outdoors in the rain for fear of damaging the battery if they get wet. A dangerous situation could happen as an electric forklift can short out because of 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 possibility of a rainstorm interrupting a driver's work. Propane forklifts are really versatile and are capable of being used both for outdoor and indoor applications. Diesel and gasoline powered forklifts can suffocate you accidentally with harmful gases if they are utilized inside. A well maintained and correctly tuned up lift truck is really a good way to safely and effectively handle your loads.