Forklifts, when used in indoor operations, are usually operated on cushioned tires that are made out of solid rubber. The pneumatic type of tires is really the best option outdoors. Pneumatic tires are common for heavy cargo and could be used on asphalt surfaces and on dirt roads.
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 machine or engine is not properly tuned or maintained, then the propane powered engine could emit CO or carbon monoxide, along with other corrosive oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine which is not in optional running form can have a similar situation occur. These gases that are produced could be extremely harmful in confined or incorrectly ventilated spaces.
Compared to gasoline and diesel powered lift trucks, propane units emit less harmful gases. Propane has a simple chemical structure. Since 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 produced by a gas or diesel engine. Therefore, a propane forklift's engine usually lasts much longer compared to a diesel or gasoline powered forklift model.
With an IC engine, air is sucked into it from the surrounding area. This air is what makes the fuel burn. A 60 horse-power lift truck must breath in 5000 cubic feet of air per minute to be able to operate. Before operation, it is recommended to switch on a propane forklift 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 intoxicating once the machinery has had a chance to warm up.
It is important to remember that electric or battery powered forklifts are unable to be used outdoors in the rain for fear of battery damage if they get wet. A dangerous situation can happen as an electric lift truck could short out because of rainwater getting in.
However, propane forklifts work really well in the rain. The propane is stored in the on-board well sealed tanks. This means there is no possibility of a rainstorm interrupting a driver's work. Propane forklifts are extremely versatile and can be used both for indoor and outdoor applications. Gasoline and diesel powered lift trucks could suffocate you accidentally with dangerous gases if they are utilized inside. A correctly tuned up and well maintained forklift is really a good way to safely and effectively handle your loads.