Lift trucks, when used in indoor operations, are normally operated on cushioned tires which are made out of solid rubber. The pneumatic type of tires is the perfect choice for outdoor applications. Pneumatic tires are common for heavy loads and could be used on dirt roads and on asphalt surfaces.
For the most part, propane powered equipment is trusted to be safe. Propane has the reputation for being a clean burning fuel source. If the engine or machine is not correctly maintained or tuned, then the propane powered engine could emit CO or carbon monoxide, along with other caustic oxides of nitrogen. Any internal engine which is not in optional working form could have a similar situation occur. These emitted gases can be really noxious within incorrectly ventilated or confined spaces.
Compared to gasoline and diesel powered forklifts, propane units emit less harmful gases. Propane has a simple chemical structure. Since it is a gas, propane mixes really well with air, compared to diesel or gasoline and burns at a low temperature. Corrosive oxides of nitrogen produced during propane combustion in the engine are a lot less than those emitted by a gas or diesel engine. Hence, the engine of a propane lift truck typically lasts a lot longer compared to a diesel or gasoline powered lift truck model.
With an IC engine, air is sucked into it from the surrounding area. This air is what causes the fuel to burn. A 60 horse-power forklift needs to breath in 5000 cubic feet of air per minute to be able to operate. Prior to operation, it is better to switch on a propane lift truck 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 machine and become less potent after the equipment has had a chance to warm up.
Electric lift trucks are not utilized outside in the rain because it is feared the rain might damage the battery. A dangerous situation can happen as an electric forklift could short out due to rainwater getting in.
However, propane forklifts work really well in the rain. The propane is stored in the well sealed tanks on board. This means there is no chance of a rainstorm interrupting the work of an operator. Propane forklifts are really versatile and could be used both outdoors and indoors. Gasoline and diesel powered lift trucks could suffocate you accidentally with dangerous gases if they are utilized inside. A well maintained and correctly tuned up lift truck is a good way to safely and effectively handle your loads.