For the majority of indoor applications, a lift truck is operated with the use of cushioned tires which mean they are made out of solid rubber tires. The pneumatic style of tires is the ideal option for outdoor operations. Pneumatic tires can be used on dirt roads and on asphalt surfaces and are common for heavy cargo.
For the most part, propane powered machine is trusted to be safe. Propane has the reputation for being a clean burning fuel source. If the engine or machine is not maintained or tuned up correctly, then the propane powered engine could emit CO or carbon monoxide, along with other corrosive oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine which is not in optional running form can have a similar situation occur. These gases which are emitted could be extremely harmful in improperly ventilated or confined spaces.
Propane units produce less harmful gases than gasoline and diesel powered forklifts. Propane's chemical structure is rather simple. As it is a gas, propane mixes well with air, as opposed to gasoline or diesel and burns at a low temperature. Corrosive oxides of nitrogen created during propane combustion in the engine are a lot less than those produced by a gas or diesel engine. Hence, the engine of a propane lift truck normally lasts much longer compared to a gasoline or diesel powered lift truck 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 must breath in 5000 cubic feet of air for every 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 machine and become less potent after the machinery has had a chance to warm up.
It is vital to note that electric or battery powered lift trucks could not be utilized outdoors in the rain for fear of battery damage if they get wet. A hazardous situation could occur as 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 possibility of a rainstorm interrupting an operator's work. Propane lift trucks are really versatile and can be used both outdoors and indoors. Diesel and gasoline powered forklifts can accidentally suffocate you with harmful gases if they are used inside. A properly tuned up and well maintained forklift is a great way to handle your loads in an effective and safe way.