Forklifts, when used in indoor operations, are normally operated on cushioned tires which are made out of solid rubber. The pneumatic type of tires is really the ideal option for outdoor operations. Pneumatic tires can be used on asphalt surfaces and on dirt roads and are common for heavy cargo.
Propane powered lift trucks are trusted to be safe for the most part and has a reputation for being a clean burning fuel source. If the equipment or engine is not tuned up or maintained correctly, 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 working form could have a similar situation occur. These gases that are emitted could be really noxious in confined or improperly ventilated spaces.
Compared to gasoline and diesel powered forklifts, propane units produce less harmful gases. Propane has a simple chemical structure. As it is a gas, propane burns at a low temperature and mixes really well with air, as opposed to diesel or gasoline. Corrosive oxides of nitrogen produced during propane combustion in the engine are less than those emitted by a diesel or gas engine. Thus, a propane forklift's engine normally lasts a lot longer compared to a gasoline or diesel powered forklift 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 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 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 potent when the equipment has had a chance to warm up.
It is important to remember that electric or battery powered lift trucks are unable to be utilized outside in the rain for fear of battery damage if they get wet. A hazardous situation could occur because an electric forklift can short out due to rainwater getting in.
Propane lift trucks on the other hand work well in the rain. The propane is stored in sealed tanks which are placed on the rear of the forklift. This means there is no possibility of a rainstorm interrupting a driver's work. Propane forklifts are really versatile and are capable of being utilized both indoors and outdoors. Diesel and gasoline powered lift trucks could accidentally suffocate you with dangerous gases if they are utilized indoors. A well maintained and properly tuned up forklift is a good way to handle your loads in an effective and safe manner.