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 option for outdoor applications. Pneumatic tires could be used on asphalt surfaces and on dirt roads and are common for heavy cargo.
Propane powered forklifts are trusted 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 maintained or tuned up correctly, then the propane powered engine can emit carbon monoxide or CO, along with other caustic oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine that is not in optional working form could have a similar situation happen. These emitted gases can be extremely harmful in improperly ventilated or confined spaces.
Propane models emit less harmful gases than diesel and gasoline powered lift trucks. Propane's chemical structure is quite simple. As it is a gas, propane burns at a low temperature and mixes really well with air, as opposed to diesel or gasoline. 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. Hence, a propane forklift's engine normally lasts a lot longer than a diesel or gasoline powered lift truck unit.
With an IC 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 should breath in 5000 cubic feet of air per minute in order to work. Before operation, it is recommended to switch on a propane lift truck outside and allow it warm up for a bit. This is because of the carbon monoxide emissions as they read higher from a cold propane-powered engine or machine and become less potent once the equipment has had a chance to warm up.
It is vital to note 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 occur because an electric forklift could short out due to rainwater getting in.
Propane forklifts however work well in the rain. The propane is stored in sealed tanks which are positioned on the back of the forklift. This means there is no possibility of a rainstorm interrupting the work of an operator. Propane forklifts are really versatile and can be utilized both outdoors and indoors. Diesel and gasoline powered lift trucks could suffocate you accidentally with dangerous gases if they are utilized inside. A correctly tuned up and well maintained lift truck is really a great way to handle your loads in an effective and safe way.