For most of indoor applications, a forklift is operated with the use of cushioned tires which mean they are made out of solid rubber tires. The pneumatic style of tires is truly the best option for outdoor operations. Pneumatic tires can be used 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 machine is not correctly maintained or tuned, then the propane powered engine can produce CO or carbon monoxide, along with other caustic oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine that is not in optional running form could result in a similar situation. These gases that are produced could be very noxious within confined or improperly ventilated spaces.
Propane units produce less harmful gases compared to diesel and gasoline powered lift trucks. Propane's chemical structure is quite simple. Because it is a gas, propane burns at a low temperature and mixes well with air, as opposed to gasoline or diesel. Caustic oxides of nitrogen produced during propane combustion in the engine are a lot less compared to those produced by a diesel or gas engine. Therefore, the engine of a propane forklift usually lasts a lot longer than 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 causes the fuel to burn. A 60 horse-power lift truck must breath in 5000 cubic feet of air for every minute in order to work. Prior to operation, it is recommended to switch on a propane lift truck outside and let it warm up for a bit. This is due to the carbon monoxide emissions since they read higher from a cold propane-powered engine or machinery and become less intoxicating once the machinery has had a chance to warm up.
It is vital to remember that electric or battery powered lift trucks could not be utilized outside in the rain for fear of damaging the battery if they get wet. A hazardous situation can happen as an electric forklift can short out because of rainwater getting in.
Propane forklifts on the other hand work well in the rain. The propane is stored in sealed tanks which are positioned on the back of the lift truck. This means there is no chance of a rainstorm interrupting the work of an operator. Propane forklifts are extremely versatile and are capable of being utilized both outdoors and indoors. Gasoline and diesel powered forklifts can accidentally suffocate you with dangerous gases if they are utilized indoors. A correctly tuned up and well maintained lift truck is truly a good way to safely and effectively handle your loads.