Lift trucks, when used in indoor operations, are normally operated on cushioned tires which are made out of solid rubber. The pneumatic style of tires is truly the best choice outdoors. Pneumatic tires are common for heavy cargo and could be used on dirt roads and on asphalt surfaces.
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 machine or engine is not correctly maintained or tuned, then the propane powered engine could produce carbon monoxide or CO, along with other corrosive oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine which is not in optional working form could result in a similar situation. These produced gases could be very harmful within confined or incorrectly ventilated spaces.
Propane models emit less harmful gases than diesel and gasoline powered lift trucks. Propane's chemical structure is rather simple. Since it is a gas, propane burns at a low temperature and mixes well with air, compared to diesel or gasoline. Caustic oxides of nitrogen created during propane combustion in the engine are a lot less than those emitted by a diesel or gas engine. Therefore, the engine of a propane forklift usually lasts a lot longer compared to a diesel or gasoline powered forklift unit.
With an IC engine, air is sucked into it from the surrounding area. This air is what makes the fuel burn. A 60 horse-power lift truck should breath in 5000 cubic feet of air per minute to be able to operate. Before 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 machine has had a chance to warm up.
It is important to remember that battery powered or electric forklifts can not be utilized outside in the rain for fear of battery damage if they get wet. A dangerous situation could happen because an electric lift truck can short out because of rainwater getting in.
However, propane lift trucks 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 the work of a driver. Propane lift trucks are extremely versatile and are capable of being used both indoors and outdoors. Gasoline and diesel powered forklifts can suffocate you accidentally with dangerous gases if they are utilized inside. A correctly tuned up and well maintained lift truck is a great way to safely and effectively handle your loads.