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 style of tires is the perfect alternative outdoors. Pneumatic tires are common for heavy cargo and could be utilized on asphalt surfaces and on dirt roads.
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 machine or engine is not correctly tuned or maintained, then the propane powered engine can produce carbon monoxide or CO, along with other caustic oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine which is not in optional running form could cause a similar situation. These gases that are produced could be really harmful within confined or improperly ventilated spaces.
Propane units emit less harmful gases than diesel and gasoline powered forklifts. The chemical structure of propane is quite simple. As it is a gas, propane burns at a low temperature and mixes really well with air, as opposed to gasoline or diesel. Caustic oxides of nitrogen created during propane combustion in the engine are a lot less compared to those emitted by a gas or diesel engine. Therefore, a propane lift truck's engine usually lasts a lot longer compared to a gasoline or diesel powered forklift model.
With an internal combustion engine, air is sucked into it from the surrounding area. This air is what makes the fuel burn. A 60 horse-power forklift should breath in 5000 cubic feet of air per minute in order to operate. Prior to operation, it is better to switch on a propane lift truck outside and let it warm up for a bit. This is because of the carbon monoxide emissions since they read higher from a cold propane-powered engine or machine and become less potent after the equipment has had a chance to warm up.
It is vital to remember that electric or battery powered lift trucks can not be utilized outside in the rain for fear of battery damage if they get wet. A dangerous situation could happen as an electric forklift could short out because of rainwater getting in.
Propane forklifts on the other hand work well in the rain. The propane is stored in sealed tanks that are positioned on the rear of the lift truck. This means there is no chance of a rainstorm interrupting the work of a driver. Propane lift trucks are extremely versatile and are capable of being used both for indoor and outdoor applications. Gasoline and diesel powered forklifts could suffocate you accidentally with harmful gases if they are used indoors. A correctly tuned up and well maintained lift truck is a good way to safely and effectively handle your loads.