For the majority of indoor operations, a lift truck is operated with the use of cushioned tires which mean they are made out of solid rubber tires. The pneumatic type of tires is really the best option for outdoor operations. Pneumatic tires can be used on asphalt surfaces and on dirt roads and are common for heavy cargo.
Propane powered lift trucks are trusted to be safe for the most part and has a reputation for being a clean burning fuel source. If the equipment or engine is not tuned up or maintained properly, then the propane powered engine can produce CO or carbon monoxide, along with other caustic oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine which is not in optional running form can cause a similar situation. These gases which are emitted can be really noxious in confined or improperly ventilated spaces.
Propane units emit less harmful gases compared to gasoline and diesel powered forklifts. Propane's chemical structure is quite simple. Since it is a gas, propane mixes well with air, compared to diesel or gasoline and burns at a low temperature. Caustic oxides of nitrogen produced during propane combustion in the engine are less compared to those produced by a diesel or gas engine. Thus, a propane lift truck's engine usually lasts much longer than a diesel or gasoline powered forklift unit.
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 lift truck must breath in 5000 cubic feet of air for every minute to be able to work. Before operation, it is better to switch on a propane forklift outside and let 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 when the equipment has had a chance to warm up.
Electric lift trucks do not get used outdoors in the rain as it is feared the rain can damage the battery. A dangerous situation could occur since an electric forklift could short out because of rainwater getting in.
However, propane forklifts work 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 the work of an operator. Propane lift trucks are extremely versatile and could be used both outdoors and indoors. Diesel and gasoline powered lift trucks can suffocate you accidentally with harmful gases if they are used indoors. A properly tuned up and well maintained lift truck is truly a good way to safely and effectively handle your loads.