For most of indoor applications, a forklift is operated with the use of cushioned tires that mean they are made out of solid rubber tires. The pneumatic style of tires is really the best alternative for outdoor applications. Pneumatic tires can be utilized on dirt roads and on asphalt surfaces and are common for heavy loads.
For the most part, propane powered equipment is believed to be safe. Propane has the reputation for being a clean burning fuel source. If the machine or engine is not properly maintained or tuned, then the propane powered engine could produce carbon monoxide or CO, along with other corrosive oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine that is not in optional running form may have a similar situation happen. These produced gases can be extremely harmful within improperly 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, as opposed to diesel or gasoline and burns at a low temperature. Caustic oxides of nitrogen created during propane combustion in the engine are a lot less compared to those produced by a diesel or gas engine. Therefore, a propane forklift's engine typically lasts a lot longer than a gasoline or diesel powered lift truck 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 must breath in 5000 cubic feet of air for every minute to be able to work. Prior to 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 machinery and become less intoxicating when the machinery has had a chance to warm up.
Electric forklifts are not used outside in the rain because it is feared the rain might damage the battery. A hazardous situation could happen as an electric lift truck could short out due to rainwater getting in.
However, propane forklifts work really well in the rain. The propane is stored in the well sealed tanks on board. This means there is no possibility of a rainstorm interrupting a driver's work. Propane lift trucks are extremely versatile and can be used both indoors and outdoors. Gasoline and diesel powered forklifts could accidentally suffocate you with harmful gases if they are utilized inside. A properly tuned up and well maintained forklift is a good way to handle your loads in a safe and effective way.