For the majority of indoor operations, a forklift is operated with the use of cushioned tires which mean they are made out of solid rubber tires. The pneumatic type of tires is the best choice outdoors. Pneumatic tires could be used on dirt roads and on asphalt surfaces and are common for heavy loads.
Propane powered lift trucks are believed to be safe for the most part and has a reputation for being a clean burning fuel source. If the engine or machine is not tuned up or maintained correctly, then the propane powered engine could emit carbon monoxide or CO, along with other corrosive oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine that is not in optional working form could result in a similar situation. These emitted gases can be very noxious in improperly ventilated or confined spaces.
Compared to diesel and gasoline powered forklifts, propane models emit less harmful gases. Propane has a simple chemical structure. Because it is a gas, propane mixes really well with air, compared to diesel or gasoline and burns at a low temperature. Corrosive oxides of nitrogen produced during propane combustion in the engine are a lot less than those emitted by a diesel or gas engine. Thus, the engine of a propane forklift usually lasts much longer than a gasoline or diesel powered forklift unit.
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 forklift has to breath in 5000 cubic feet of air per minute in order to operate. Prior to 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 machinery and become less intoxicating when the equipment has had a chance to warm up.
It is essential to remember that battery powered or electric lift trucks are unable to be used outside in the rain for fear of damaging the battery if they get wet. A hazardous situation can happen as an electric forklift can short out due to rainwater getting in.
Propane forklifts on the other hand work really well in the rain. The propane is stored in sealed tanks which are placed 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 really versatile and are capable of being used both indoors and outdoors. Diesel and gasoline powered forklifts could suffocate you accidentally with harmful gases if they are used inside. A properly tuned up and well maintained lift truck is really a great way to effectively and safely handle your loads.