Forklifts, when utilized in indoor applications, are usually operated on cushioned tires which are made out of solid rubber. The pneumatic style of tires is really the ideal alternative for outdoor operations. Pneumatic tires are common for heavy loads and can be utilized on asphalt surfaces and on dirt roads.
For the most part, propane powered equipment is believed to be safe. Propane has the reputation for being a clean burning fuel source. If the equipment or engine is not properly tuned or maintained, then the propane powered engine can emit carbon monoxide or CO, along with other caustic oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine which is not in optional working form can have a similar situation occur. These produced gases can be very noxious in confined or improperly ventilated spaces.
Compared to diesel and gasoline powered forklifts, propane units 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 a lot less compared to those produced by a gas or diesel engine. Thus, a propane forklift's engine usually lasts a lot longer than a diesel or gasoline powered forklift model.
IC 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 per minute in order to work. Before operation, it is recommended to switch on a propane forklift outside and let 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 equipment and become less potent once the machinery has had a chance to warm up.
It is vital to note that battery powered or electric forklifts are unable to be utilized outdoors 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 because of rainwater getting in.
However, propane lift trucks work really well in the rain. The propane is stored in the well sealed tanks on board. This means there is no possibility of a rainstorm interrupting a driver's work. Propane forklifts are really versatile and could be used both indoors and outdoors. Diesel and gasoline powered lift trucks could suffocate you accidentally with harmful gases if they are used indoors. A properly tuned up and well maintained forklift is a great way to handle your loads in an effective and safe way.