For the majority of indoor operations, a lift truck is operated with the use of cushioned tires which mean they are made out of solid rubber tires. The pneumatic type of tires is the best choice for outdoor applications. Pneumatic tires can be used on asphalt surfaces and on dirt roads and are common for heavy loads.
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 machinery or engine is not properly tuned or maintained, then the propane powered engine can produce CO or carbon monoxide, along with other caustic oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine that is not in optional running form may cause a similar situation. These produced gases can be really noxious within improperly ventilated or confined spaces.
Compared to gasoline and diesel powered forklifts, propane units emit less harmful gases. Propane has a simple chemical structure. Since it is a gas, propane burns at a low temperature and mixes really well with air, as opposed to gasoline or diesel. Corrosive oxides of nitrogen created during propane combustion in the engine are a lot less compared to those produced by a gas or diesel engine. Hence, a propane lift truck's engine typically lasts much longer than a diesel or gasoline powered lift truck model.
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 in order to work. Before operation, it is better 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 equipment and become less intoxicating when the machinery has had a chance to warm up.
It is vital to note that electric or battery powered lift trucks can not be used outdoors in the rain for fear of battery damage if they get wet. A hazardous situation could happen as an electric lift truck could short out due to rainwater getting in.
Propane forklifts on the other hand work well in the rain. The propane is stored in sealed tanks that are placed on the back of the lift truck. This means there is no possibility of a rainstorm interrupting the work of an operator. Propane lift trucks are extremely versatile and are capable of being utilized both indoors and outdoors. Gasoline and diesel powered lift trucks could suffocate you accidentally with harmful gases if they are used indoors. A well maintained and properly tuned up lift truck is really a good way to effectively and safely handle your loads.