For the majority of indoor applications, a lift truck is operated with the use of cushioned tires that mean they are made out of solid rubber tires. The pneumatic type of tires is the ideal option outdoors. Pneumatic tires are common for heavy loads and could 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 equipment is not tuned up or maintained properly, then the propane powered engine can produce carbon monoxide or CO, along with other corrosive oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine which is not in optional working form can result in a similar situation. These produced gases could be very harmful within improperly ventilated or confined spaces.
Compared to gasoline and diesel powered lift trucks, propane models produce less harmful gases. Propane has a simple chemical structure. Since 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 produced by a diesel or gas engine. Hence, a propane lift truck's engine usually lasts a lot longer than a gasoline or diesel powered forklift unit.
Internal combustion 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 should breath in 5000 cubic feet of air for every minute in order to work. Prior to operation, it is better to switch on a propane forklift 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 once the machinery has had a chance to warm up.
Electric lift trucks do not get used outside in the rain as it is feared the rain could damage the battery. A dangerous situation could happen since an electric forklift could short out due to rainwater getting in.
Propane lift trucks on the other hand work well in the rain. The propane is stored in sealed tanks which are placed on the back of the lift truck. This means there is no possibility of a rainstorm interrupting an operator's work. Propane forklifts are really versatile and are capable of being utilized both indoors and outdoors. Gasoline and diesel powered lift trucks can accidentally suffocate you with harmful gases if they are utilized indoors. A well maintained and properly tuned up lift truck is a good way to safely and effectively handle your loads.