Forklifts, when utilized in indoor applications, are usually operated on cushioned tires which are made out of solid rubber. The pneumatic style of tires is the best alternative outdoors. Pneumatic tires are common for heavy loads and could be utilized on asphalt surfaces and on dirt roads.
For the most part, propane powered machinery is trusted to be safe. Propane has the reputation for being a clean burning fuel source. If the machinery or engine is not properly tuned or maintained, then the propane powered engine could produce CO or carbon monoxide, along with other caustic oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine which is not in optional working form can cause a similar situation. These produced gases can be very harmful in confined or incorrectly ventilated spaces.
Compared to diesel and gasoline powered forklifts, propane models produce less harmful gases. Propane has a simple chemical structure. As it is a gas, propane mixes well with air, as opposed to diesel or gasoline and burns at a low temperature. Corrosive oxides of nitrogen produced during propane combustion in the engine are less compared to those produced by a diesel or gas engine. Hence, a propane lift truck's engine normally lasts a lot longer compared to a gasoline or diesel powered forklift unit.
IC engines work by sucking in air from the surrounding area. This air reacts with the fuel causing it to burn. A 60 horse-power lift truck has to breath in 5000 cubic feet of air for every minute to be able to operate. 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 machine and become less intoxicating after the machine has had a chance to warm up.
Electric lift trucks are not utilized outside in the rain since it is feared the rain might damage the battery. A dangerous situation could happen since an electric lift truck can short out due to rainwater getting in.
Propane forklifts however work really well in the rain. The propane is stored in sealed tanks which are placed on the back of the lift truck. This means there is no chance of a rainstorm interrupting the work of a driver. Propane lift trucks are extremely versatile and can be utilized both for indoor and outdoor operations. Diesel and gasoline powered forklifts could suffocate you accidentally with harmful gases if they are utilized inside. A well maintained and correctly tuned up lift truck is a great way to safely and effectively handle your loads.