Lift trucks, when utilized in indoor operations, are normally operated on cushioned tires which are made out of solid rubber. The pneumatic style of tires is really the ideal option outdoors. Pneumatic tires are common for heavy loads and can be used on asphalt surfaces and on dirt roads.
For the most part, propane powered machinery is believed to be safe. Propane has the reputation for being a clean burning fuel source. If the engine or equipment is not maintained or tuned up properly, 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 may have a similar situation happen. These gases which are emitted could be very harmful within incorrectly ventilated or confined spaces.
Compared to diesel and gasoline powered lift trucks, propane units produce less harmful gases. Propane has a simple chemical structure. Because it is a gas, propane burns at a low temperature and mixes really well with air, compared to gasoline or diesel. Corrosive oxides of nitrogen produced during propane combustion in the engine are a lot less than those emitted by a gas or diesel engine. Hence, the engine of a propane forklift typically lasts a lot longer than a diesel or gasoline powered forklift unit.
Internal combustion engines work by sucking in air from the surrounding area. This air reacts with the fuel causing it to burn. A 60 horse-power lift truck should breath in 5000 cubic feet of air for every minute to be able to operate. Before operation, it is better to switch on a propane forklift outside and allow 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 when the machine has had a chance to warm up.
It is important to remember that electric or battery powered forklifts are unable to be utilized outside in the rain for fear of battery damage if they get wet. A hazardous situation can happen because an electric lift truck can short out because of rainwater getting in.
Propane lift trucks however work well in the rain. The propane is stored in sealed tanks that are placed on the back of the forklift. This means there is no chance of a rainstorm interrupting the work of an operator. Propane lift trucks are really versatile and are capable of being utilized both indoors and outdoors. Diesel and gasoline powered forklifts could accidentally suffocate you with harmful gases if they are used indoors. A properly tuned up and well maintained forklift is a great way to handle your loads in a safe and effective way.