Forklifts, when used in indoor operations, are normally operated on cushioned tires that are made out of solid rubber. The pneumatic type of tires is truly the ideal option outdoors. Pneumatic tires are common for heavy loads and can be used on dirt roads and on asphalt surfaces.
For the most part, propane powered machine is trusted to be safe. Propane has the reputation for being a clean burning fuel source. If the equipment or engine is not properly maintained or tuned, then the propane powered engine can emit carbon monoxide or CO, along with other corrosive oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine that is not in optional working form can have a similar situation occur. These gases that are produced can be very harmful within confined or incorrectly ventilated spaces.
Compared to gasoline and diesel powered forklifts, propane units emit less harmful gases. Propane has a simple chemical structure. As it is a gas, propane mixes really well with air, compared to gasoline or diesel and burns at a low temperature. Caustic oxides of nitrogen produced during propane combustion in the engine are less compared to those produced by a gas or diesel engine. Thus, the engine of a propane lift truck typically lasts a lot longer compared to a diesel or gasoline powered lift truck unit.
Internal combustion engines work by sucking in air from the surrounding area. This air reacts with the fuel causing it to burn. A 60 horse-power forklift must breath in 5000 cubic feet of air for every minute in order to work. Before operation, it is better to switch on a propane forklift outside and let 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 when the machine has had a chance to warm up.
Electric lift trucks do not get used outdoors in the rain as it is feared the rain could damage the battery. A dangerous situation could occur as an electric lift truck can 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 the work of an operator. Propane lift trucks are extremely versatile and are capable of being used both outdoors and indoors. Gasoline and diesel powered lift trucks can accidentally suffocate you with dangerous gases if they are utilized indoors. A well maintained and properly tuned up lift truck is a great way to safely and effectively handle your loads.