Lift trucks, when used in indoor applications, are normally operated on cushioned tires which are made out of solid rubber. The pneumatic style of tires is really the ideal choice for outdoor operations. Pneumatic tires are common for heavy cargo and can be used on dirt roads and on asphalt surfaces.
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 engine or machine is not maintained or tuned up properly, then the propane powered engine could produce CO or carbon monoxide, along with other corrosive oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine which is not in optional running form could have a similar situation occur. These emitted gases could be really harmful within confined or incorrectly ventilated spaces.
Compared to gasoline and diesel powered lift trucks, propane units produce less harmful gases. Propane has a simple chemical structure. As it is a gas, propane burns at a low temperature and mixes well with air, as opposed to gasoline or diesel. Corrosive oxides of nitrogen produced during propane combustion in the engine are less compared to those emitted by a gas or diesel engine. Hence, the engine of a propane forklift usually lasts much longer than a gasoline or diesel powered lift truck unit.
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 lift truck has to 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 due to the carbon monoxide emissions as they read higher from a cold propane-powered engine or machinery and become less intoxicating once the equipment has had a chance to warm up.
Electric lift trucks are not utilized outside in the rain because it is feared the rain could damage the battery. A hazardous situation could happen as an electric lift truck could short out because of rainwater getting in.
Propane forklifts however work really well in the rain. The propane is stored in sealed tanks which are positioned on the back of the lift truck. This means there is no chance of a rainstorm interrupting a driver's work. Propane forklifts are really versatile and are capable of being utilized both for outdoor and indoor applications. Diesel and gasoline powered lift trucks could accidentally suffocate you with harmful gases if they are utilized indoors. A well maintained and properly tuned up lift truck is really a great way to effectively and safely handle your loads.