Lift trucks, when used in indoor operations, are typically operated on cushioned tires which are made out of solid rubber. The pneumatic style of tires is the ideal choice for outdoor operations. Pneumatic tires can be utilized on dirt roads and on asphalt surfaces and are common for heavy cargo.
Propane powered forklifts are believed to be safe for the most part and has a reputation for being a clean burning fuel source. If the engine or machinery is not maintained or tuned up properly, then the propane powered engine could produce CO or carbon monoxide, along with other caustic oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine which is not in optional working form can have a similar situation occur. These produced gases could be really harmful within confined or incorrectly 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 well with air, compared to gasoline or diesel. Caustic oxides of nitrogen created during propane combustion in the engine are a lot less compared to those emitted by a diesel or gas engine. Hence, a propane forklift's engine typically lasts a lot longer compared to a diesel or gasoline powered forklift model.
With an internal combustion engine, air is sucked into it from the surrounding area. This air is what causes the fuel to burn. A 60 horse-power forklift should breath in 5000 cubic feet of air per minute in order to work. Prior to operation, it is recommended to switch on a propane forklift outside and allow 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 intoxicating after the equipment has had a chance to warm up.
Electric forklifts are not utilized outside in the rain because it is feared the rain can damage the battery. A hazardous situation could happen because an electric forklift could short out due to rainwater getting in.
On the other hand, propane lift trucks work 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 forklifts are really versatile and could be used both outdoors and indoors. Diesel and gasoline powered lift trucks can accidentally suffocate you with harmful gases if they are used inside. A correctly tuned up and well maintained forklift is truly a great way to handle your loads in a safe and effective way.