For most of indoor operations, 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 choice for outdoor applications. Pneumatic tires are common for heavy cargo and can be utilized on asphalt surfaces and on dirt roads.
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 equipment or engine is not maintained or tuned up correctly, then the propane powered engine can emit CO or carbon monoxide, along with other corrosive oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine which is not in optional working form may have a similar situation happen. These gases that are emitted can be very noxious within confined or improperly ventilated spaces.
Compared to diesel and gasoline 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 compared to those emitted by a gas or diesel engine. Thus, the engine of a propane forklift typically lasts much longer than a diesel or gasoline powered lift truck unit.
With an internal combustion engine, air is sucked into it from the surrounding area. This air is what makes the fuel 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 lift truck outside and allow it warm up for a bit. This is because of the carbon monoxide emissions since they read higher from a cold propane-powered engine or equipment and become less intoxicating when the machine has had a chance to warm up.
It is important to remember that electric or battery powered lift trucks can not be utilized outdoors in the rain for fear of damaging the battery if they get wet. A dangerous situation could occur because an electric forklift can short out because of 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 back of the forklift. This means there is no possibility of a rainstorm interrupting the work of a driver. Propane lift trucks are really versatile and are capable of being utilized both for indoor and outdoor operations. Gasoline and diesel powered lift trucks could accidentally suffocate you with dangerous gases if they are utilized inside. A correctly tuned up and well maintained forklift is a great way to effectively and safely handle your loads.