For most of indoor applications, a forklift is operated with the use of cushioned tires which mean they are made out of solid rubber tires. The pneumatic style of tires is truly the best choice outdoors. Pneumatic tires can be used on dirt roads and on asphalt surfaces and are common for heavy cargo.
Propane powered forklifts are believed to be safe for the most part and has a 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 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 occur. These gases that are emitted 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 mixes well with air, compared to diesel or gasoline and burns at a low temperature. Caustic oxides of nitrogen produced during propane combustion in the engine are less compared to those emitted by a diesel or gas engine. Thus, a propane forklift's engine typically lasts much longer compared to a diesel or gasoline powered forklift unit.
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 needs to breath in 5000 cubic feet of air per minute to be able to work. 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 since they read higher from a cold propane-powered engine or equipment and become less potent after the equipment has had a chance to warm up.
It is important to note that electric or battery powered forklifts could not be used outside in the rain for fear of battery damage if they get wet. A dangerous situation could happen since an electric lift truck can short out due to 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 a driver's work. Propane forklifts are extremely versatile and can be utilized both outdoors and indoors. Diesel and gasoline powered lift trucks can suffocate you accidentally with dangerous gases if they are used inside. A correctly tuned up and well maintained lift truck is really a great way to safely and effectively handle your loads.