Lift trucks, when utilized in indoor operations, are usually operated on cushioned tires which are made out of solid rubber. The pneumatic type of tires is truly the best option outdoors. Pneumatic tires can be utilized on asphalt surfaces and on dirt roads and are common for heavy loads.
For the most part, propane powered machinery is trusted to be safe. Propane has the reputation for being a clean burning fuel source. If the engine or equipment is not correctly maintained or tuned, 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 running form may cause a similar situation. These gases that are emitted can be very harmful within improperly ventilated or confined spaces.
Propane units emit less harmful gases than diesel and gasoline powered forklifts. Propane's chemical structure is rather simple. As 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 less than those produced by a gas or diesel engine. Therefore, the engine of a propane lift truck usually lasts a lot longer than a diesel or gasoline powered forklift unit.
Internal combustion 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 must breath in 5000 cubic feet of air for every minute to be able to operate. Before operation, it is recommended to switch on a propane lift truck outside and let it warm up for a bit. This is due to the carbon monoxide emissions since they read higher from a cold propane-powered engine or equipment and become less potent after the equipment has had a chance to warm up.
It is vital to remember that battery powered or electric lift trucks could not be utilized outside in the rain for fear of damaging the battery if they get wet. A hazardous situation could happen as an electric lift truck can short out due to rainwater getting in.
On the other hand, propane lift trucks 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 the work of an operator. Propane lift trucks are extremely versatile and are capable of being used both for indoor and outdoor applications. Diesel and gasoline powered forklifts can accidentally suffocate you with harmful gases if they are utilized inside. A well maintained and correctly tuned up forklift is really a great way to effectively and safely handle your loads.