For most of indoor applications, 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 ideal option for outdoor operations. Pneumatic tires could be used on asphalt surfaces and on dirt roads and are common for heavy cargo.
Propane powered lift trucks are believed 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 properly maintained or tuned, then the propane powered engine can emit carbon monoxide or CO, along with other caustic oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine which is not in optional running form could have a similar situation happen. These gases which are produced can be really noxious within confined or incorrectly ventilated spaces.
Propane units produce less harmful gases than diesel and gasoline powered lift trucks. Propane's chemical structure is rather simple. Since it is a gas, propane mixes well with air, as opposed to diesel or gasoline and burns at a low temperature. Caustic oxides of nitrogen produced during propane combustion in the engine are a lot less compared to those produced by a gas or diesel engine. Therefore, the engine of a propane lift truck typically lasts a lot longer compared to a gasoline or diesel powered lift truck 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 forklift should breath in 5000 cubic feet of air for every minute in order to operate. 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 as they read higher from a cold propane-powered engine or equipment and become less potent when the equipment has had a chance to warm up.
Electric forklifts are not utilized outside in the rain since it is feared the rain can damage the battery. A hazardous situation could occur since an electric lift truck could short out because of rainwater getting in.
However, propane forklifts work well in the rain. The propane is stored in the on-board well sealed tanks. This means there is no chance of a rainstorm interrupting the work of an operator. Propane forklifts are really versatile and are capable of being used both indoors and outdoors. Gasoline and diesel powered lift trucks could accidentally suffocate you with harmful gases if they are used inside. A well maintained and correctly tuned up lift truck is really a good way to handle your loads in a safe and effective way.