For most 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 best alternative for outdoor applications. Pneumatic tires could be used on dirt roads and on asphalt surfaces and are common for heavy loads.
Propane powered lift trucks are trusted to be safe for the most part and has a reputation for being a clean burning fuel source. If the machine or engine is not maintained or tuned up correctly, 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 can have a similar situation happen. These produced gases could be very noxious within confined or improperly ventilated spaces.
Compared to diesel and gasoline powered forklifts, propane models emit less harmful gases. Propane has a simple chemical structure. As it is a gas, propane mixes really well with air, compared to gasoline or diesel and burns at a low temperature. Corrosive oxides of nitrogen created during propane combustion in the engine are less than those emitted by a gas or diesel engine. Therefore, a propane forklift's engine typically lasts much longer than a diesel or gasoline powered lift truck model.
With an internal combustion engine, air is sucked into it from the surrounding area. This air is what causes the fuel to burn. A 60 horse-power lift truck has to breath in 5000 cubic feet of air per minute to be able to work. Prior to operation, it is better to switch on a propane lift truck outside and allow 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 equipment has had a chance to warm up.
It is important to remember that electric or battery powered forklifts can not be utilized outside in the rain for fear of battery damage if they get wet. A hazardous situation can happen as an electric lift truck can short out because of rainwater getting in.
Propane forklifts however work well in the rain. The propane is stored in sealed tanks which are placed on the rear of the forklift. This means there is no chance of a rainstorm interrupting the work of an operator. Propane lift trucks are extremely versatile and could be used both outdoors and indoors. Diesel and gasoline powered forklifts could suffocate you accidentally with harmful gases if they are utilized indoors. A well maintained and properly tuned up lift truck is really a good way to effectively and safely handle your loads.