For the majority of indoor applications, a lift truck is operated with the use of cushioned tires that mean they are made out of solid rubber tires. The pneumatic style of tires is the best choice outdoors. Pneumatic tires could be utilized on asphalt surfaces and on dirt roads and are common for heavy loads.
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 machine or engine is not maintained or tuned up correctly, then the propane powered engine can emit carbon monoxide or CO, along with other caustic oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine that is not in optional running form can have a similar situation occur. These produced gases can be very harmful in incorrectly ventilated or confined spaces.
Propane units produce less harmful gases compared to gasoline and diesel powered forklifts. The chemical structure of propane is quite simple. Because it is a gas, propane burns at a low temperature and mixes well with air, as opposed to diesel or gasoline. Corrosive oxides of nitrogen created during propane combustion in the engine are less than those produced by a diesel or gas engine. Therefore, the engine of a propane forklift usually lasts much longer than a gasoline or diesel powered forklift model.
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 should breath in 5000 cubic feet of air per minute to be able to operate. 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 as they read higher from a cold propane-powered engine or machinery and become less intoxicating once the equipment has had a chance to warm up.
Electric forklifts are not used outdoors in the rain as it is feared the rain can damage the battery. A hazardous situation could occur since an electric forklift could short out due to rainwater getting in.
Propane forklifts on the other hand 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 possibility of a rainstorm interrupting the work of a driver. Propane forklifts are extremely versatile and could be used both for outdoor and indoor operations. Diesel and gasoline powered forklifts could suffocate you accidentally with dangerous gases if they are used indoors. A well maintained and properly tuned up lift truck is truly a great way to safely and effectively handle your loads.