Lift trucks, when used in indoor applications, are usually operated on cushioned tires which are made out of solid rubber. The pneumatic style of tires is the ideal option outdoors. Pneumatic tires are common for heavy cargo and could be used on dirt roads and on asphalt surfaces.
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 machinery or engine is not correctly tuned or maintained, then the propane powered engine could produce CO or carbon monoxide, along with other caustic oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine that is not in optional working form could cause a similar situation. These produced gases can be very noxious in confined or incorrectly ventilated spaces.
Propane models produce less harmful gases than gasoline and diesel powered lift trucks. The chemical structure of propane is rather simple. Since it is a gas, propane mixes really well with air, as opposed to gasoline or diesel and burns at a low temperature. Caustic oxides of nitrogen created during propane combustion in the engine are a lot less than those produced by a diesel or gas engine. Therefore, a propane lift truck's engine normally lasts much longer compared to a gasoline or diesel powered lift truck 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 lift truck must breath in 5000 cubic feet of air for every minute in order to work. Prior to operation, it is better 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.
Electric forklifts are not used outside in the rain as it is feared the rain may damage the battery. A dangerous situation could occur since an electric forklift could short out due to rainwater getting in.
Propane lift trucks on the other hand work really well in the rain. The propane is stored in sealed tanks which are placed on the back of the lift truck. This means there is no chance of a rainstorm interrupting an operator's work. Propane lift trucks are really versatile and could be utilized both indoors and outdoors. Diesel and gasoline powered forklifts can accidentally suffocate you with dangerous gases if they are used inside. A well maintained and correctly tuned up forklift is a good way to handle your loads in a safe and effective way.